“He’s a Jerk Who Got Rich and Now He Hates Everybody”
Sep 27, 2023
auto_awesome
Gabe Howard, diagnosed with bipolar disorder, shares his journey from a successful tech career to becoming a speaker and activist. He discusses the stigma and consequences of bipolar disorder, the challenges of obtaining affordable health insurance, and the underrepresentation of bipolar disorder. Howard also explores his career journey, including fundraising for a mental health charity and pursuing side hustles. Lastly, he discusses the possibility of individuals with bipolar disorder succeeding in the corporate world and the importance of inclusivity and reasonable accommodations.
Sharing stories of individuals who successfully manage mental illness challenges stigma and discrimination in the workplace.
Finding social support and a sense of community is invaluable for individuals with bipolar disorder.
Deep dives
Importance of Sharing Stories of Success in Managing Mental Illness
It is crucial to highlight and share stories of individuals who successfully manage their mental illness and lead fulfilling lives and careers. This serves as a counterbalance to the prevalent narrative that focuses on extreme or negative experiences. Sharing stories of individuals who climb the corporate ladder, show up, and keep their lives together helps challenge the stigma surrounding mental illness.
Challenges Faced in the Work Environment with Mental Illness
The work environment can present challenges for individuals with mental illness. The lack of understanding, awareness, and tolerance surrounding serious mental health issues can lead to stigma and discrimination. The story of Gabe Howard highlights his experience of being let go from his job due to his bipolar disorder, raising issues around health insurance, financial stability, and the persistence of stigma in today's work environment.
The Importance of Peer Support and Community for Those with Bipolar Disorder
Finding social support and a sense of community can be invaluable for individuals with bipolar disorder. Just like mom groups provide a comfortable space for mothers to connect and share experiences, support groups for bipolar disorder offer a similar shorthand where members can openly discuss their struggles and find understanding without judgment. These communities provide a sense of belonging and validation.
Navigating the Challenges of Bipolar Disorder and Employment
The podcast episode sheds light on the complexity of maintaining employment while managing bipolar disorder. Gabe Howard shares his personal journey of being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, losing his job due to misunderstandings and stigma, and navigating the healthcare system. He highlights the difficulties faced by individuals with bipolar disorder in securing health insurance and the importance of finding a career that offers flexibility and understanding to accommodate the cyclical nature of the condition.
Gabe Howard had a successful tech career when, at the age of 26, he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. To the outside world, many people thought it was merely a case of an inflated ego. After going through a divorce, losing his job, and getting through the scare of losing health insurance, he came out the other side as a speaker and activist.
Howard is the host of a number of podcasts including “Inside Mental Health,” and he speaks with host Morra Aarons-Mele about his 2003 diagnosis, how it impacted his career, and what people still misunderstand both in and outside of the workplace about bipolar disorder.
Hear more of Howard's podcasts here: https://www.gabehoward.com/podcasts/
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode