Good jobs for people with BPD

If you’re living with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and looking for a job, the process can be challenging. 

That’s why helping you find a fulfilling job, in a workplace that supports your long-term mental wellbeing is our mission.

Find a job that works for you

If you're living with BPD and looking for work, you aren't alone. There are between 1 and 4 people in every 100 Australians who are also living with BPD in our country.

Searching for fulfilling work while managing your mental health can be tricky, and it's our mission to support you to not only find meaningful work, but also thrive in your workplace.

Finding meaningful work while living with BPD is worthwhile as it can:

• Give you a sense of structure and purpose
• Help you learn to regulate your emotions
• Build your confidence and resilience
• Expand your social circle
• Allow you to have financial independence

Below, you’ll find advice on understanding how to identify your strengths, learn what you really need from a job and get ideas of job roles that may fit your needs when living with BPD. 

Your journey and situation are your own, and discovering what will work for you is an essential part of that journey.  

Keep reading for tips on finding a job while living with BPD.

What to look for in a job when you have BPD

People living with BPD are capable of finding fulfilling work in a range of different job roles and workplaces.

Symptoms, skills and interests vary from person to person. In your job search, focus on finding a job that enhances your individual strengths and helps you manage your mental health.

While everyone’s experience living with BPD is different, you may like to consider the following job features:

Do you thrive in a creative job?

Many people with BPD thrive in creative roles which allow them to continually work on new projects. Jobs that involve creativity also promote a sense of focus and mindfulness, which you may find helpful.

What kinds of things do you find rewarding?

The most rewarding jobs often give you a sense of purpose. Think about your passions and values, and try and find a role that aligns with these. When your work feels meaningful, it can be easier to overcome challenges.

Do you need flexibility?

If managing your symptoms makes it difficult to stick to long working hours or a structured work environment, you might prefer a flexible role. A growing number of jobs now allow working from home, with a flexible schedule and workload.

Good job ideas for people with BPD

Everyone experiences BPD differently, which means there is no one-size-fits-all list of best jobs for you.

However, here are some ideas to get you thinking about what might work for you.

When looking for the best options for work, you should consider your individual strengths, skills, needs and capabilities.

It’s important to remember that the kind of job that is right for one person may not be right for everyone.

If you would like more support, speaking to an employment consultant at APM can also help you discover other opportunities you may not have considered before, or that may be more suitable specifically for you.

Creative jobs

• Copywriting
• Graphic design
• Photography
• Set design
• Video editing
• Photographer
• Interior designer
• Dance instructor
• Florist
• Beauty therapist
• Social media manager
• Makeup artist
• Tattoo artist

Rewarding jobs

• Teaching assistant or educator
• Childcare assistant
• Nursing staff
• Vet nurse
• Animal groomer
• Dog walker
• Pet sitter
• Yoga instructor
• Social worker

Jobs with flexible working arrangements

• Graphic designer
• Freelance writer
• Web developer
• Online tutor
• Video editor
• Makeup artist
• Personal trainer
• Dog walker
• Photographer
• Social media manager
• Software developer
• Copywriter

Please note - these job suggestions may not be suitable for everyone with BPD. These jobs may suit some people depending on their circumstances including, but not limited to, their current experience with BPD.

What employment support can I access?

If you're living with disability, injury, or a health condition, there is support available to help you reach your goals.

If you are eligible for Disability Employment Services, (BPD is a supported health condition), APM can provide support to assist you to find work. 

Disability Employment Services is a government-funded program designed to help you find and keep work and is provided at no cost to participants.

You may be eligible for help with:

• Career advice
• Finding suitable job opportunities
• Meeting local employers
• Writing resumes and job applications
• Preparing for job interviews
• Accessing training
• Accessing mental health support
• Ongoing workplace support
• Accessing funding for things like uniforms and transport
• Accessing workplace modifications to help you succeed at work
• Workplace assessments to help identify what support is right for you

Resources and further reading

• Borderline personality disorder (BPD) - traits, symptoms and diagnosist - healthdirec
• How Working Improves Your Mental Health
• Borderline Personality Disorder: What You Need To Know - McLean Hospital
• Coping with BPD at work: strategies and helpful advice - APM
• Living better with borderline personality disorder (BPD) - APM
• What is borderline personality disorder (BPD)? - APM

About this article

APM supports people with disability, injury, or a health condition through various programs and services across its businesses, including Disability Employment Services in Australia.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

When discussing disability, APM’s copy style is to use person-first language and the social model of disability in the first instance. Some articles may use identity-first language or refer to the medical model of disability for clarity or to better suit a specific audience.

If you have any questions or feedback about the content of this article, visit our Feedback page to get in touch or email support@apm.net.au