Bipolar disorder affects men and women equally, as well as all races, ethnic groups, and socioeconomic classes. Although men and women appear to be equally affected by bipolar disorder, rapid cycling is seen more often in women. Women also tend to experience more depressive and mixed state episodes than do men.

Bipolar disorder is a neurobiological brain disorder that affects approximately 2.3 million Americans today, or almost 1 percent of the population.

An estimated 2.8% of U.S. adults had bipolar disorder in the past year. Past year prevalence of bipolar disorder among adults was similar for males (2.9%) and females (2.8%)….Figure 1.

Should I Tell my Boss About my Bipolar Disorder? You don’t have to talk to your boss or coworkers about your bipolar disorder. Your health is your personal, private business. But if your condition has been affecting your performance at work, being open may be a good idea.

Bipolar disorder is one of the many conditions covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This law is designed to protect people with disabilities from discrimination in hiring, job assignments, promotions, pay, firing, benefits, layoffs, and all other employment-related activities.

There are actually many possible reasonable accommodations that can be made for bipolar disability, including: Reduced work schedule/flex time/later starting time. Regular time off for treatment. Change in work location.