Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) can make looking for work and holding down a job more complicated, but not impossible.
Many people living with BPD go on to have a successful and happy work life.
In fact, in a safe and supportive job, working can be highly beneficial for your overall well being.
In addition to giving you more financial control over your life, working can help you build your confidence, connect with other people and give you a sense of purpose.
Whether you’re at the start of your employment journey, or are thinking about changing careers, here are 5 tips for planning a career while living with BPD:
1. Know what you want in a job
The first step to building a fulfilling career is understanding what you want in a job and where your strengths will shine.
People living with BPD excel in a wide range of jobs and industries, and accommodations at work can help you overcome challenges you might face in the workplace.
When thinking about the best jobs for people with BPD, keep these factors in mind:
1) Schedule – if you need to take time off for health appointments, a flexible schedule may be better for you. Consider day time hours so that you can keep up with a healthy sleep routine at night.
2) Work environment – consider what type of environment you work best in, whether that’s quiet and slow-paced or fast-paced and highly social. Keep in mind, high stress environments can make BPD symptoms worse.
3) Creativity – many people with BPD thrive in creative roles where they’re able to regularly work on new projects. Working in a role that lines up with your interests and passions can help you stay more motivated and focused.
4) Training and qualifications – you might be able to apply for some jobs with your current qualifications, but for others you might need further training or study.
If you’re not sure what types of jobs are a good fit for you, try talking with an employment consultant.
An employment consultant will take time to understand your strengths, needs and goals.
When it comes to employment, and then work closely with you to find job opportunities where you can thrive.
2. Explore jobs through work experience
Work experience is a good way to try out different types of jobs and workplaces to see if they are a good fit for you.
You’ll get on-the-job experience and a chance to connect with other people working in a similar role.
During a work experience placement, you’ll gain skills and experience you can take into paid jobs in the future.
Including work experience on your resume can also help you stand out from other applicants when applying for a job.
You can also ask your work experience supervisor to write you a reference letter when applying for paid jobs in the future.
To find work experience opportunities, try approaching local businesses in your area or reaching out to companies you’re interested in.
You can also get help finding work experience opportunities that are aligned with your career goals through Disability Employment Services or Workforce Australia.
3. Get support to find and keep a job
Finding work can be challenging at times, and it’s important to reach out for help when you need it.
If your BPD symptoms are affecting your ability to find work or hold down a job, you could be eligible for support at no cost through a government funded service.
Employment supports in Australia include:
1) Disability Employment Services – one-on-one support to find and keep a job for people living with injury, illness or disability. Tailored services include career planning, work experience opportunities, writing your resume, preparing for job interviews, accessing workplace accommodations and more.
2) Workforce Australia – employment support for all Australian job seekers. Access online services to help with your job search or request tailored support from a provider in your area.
3) Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) – financial help for people living with disability to access workplace modifications and support services. The EAF can help you pay for things like special equipment for the workplace, physical adjustments to your workplace or information and communication devices.
4. Ask for workplace accommodations
Changes to your job role, schedule or workplace may help you feel more confident at work and better manage your BPD symptoms.
In Australia, employers are required to make reasonable adjustments so that you can do your job safely and properly.
Workplace accommodations may include things like:
1) Time off for mental health appointments
2) Scheduled breaks throughout the day
3) Working part time
4) Working from home
5) Software and apps to help with organisation and memory
6) Regular check-ins with your supervisor
7) Private working space
You can ask your employer for accommodations directly, or you can get support to access workplace accommodations through Disability Employment Services.
If you’re not sure what accommodations you need in your job, a Disability Employment Services provider can organise a workplace assessment to help you get the support you need.
5. Keep up with your treatment plan
Looking after your physical and mental wellbeing can help you perform better in your job and feel more confident as you chase your career goals.
Even when you’re feeling on top, it’s important to keep up with your treatment plan and stay connected with your support network.
In addition to treatments and coping strategies advised by your doctor, try these self-care techniques to protect your wellbeing at home and in the workplace:
1) Take time for yourself each day by doing something relaxing.
2) Attend a peer support group and connect with other people who have similar experiences to you.
3) Stay connected with your loved ones.
4) Set boundaries around work. For example, don’t take your work home with you, or switch off notifications outside of work hours.
5) Stay active and eat a balanced diet.
6) Keep up with a healthy sleep routine.
Planning for career success
Having a successful career starts with understanding your needs, challenges and goals.
Finding the right job can take time, and it’s important to reach out for support along the way.
Work experience is a good way to try out different types of jobs, and workplace accommodations can help you feel more confident as you work towards your goals.
For long term career success, it’s important to maintain a healthy work-life balance, and look after your physical and mental wellbeing.
