Most bi-polars are employed supports make the difference.

OTTAWA -- Two-thirds of people with Bipolar I Disorder are able to hold down a job, particularly if they have help with the practicalities of living, such as meal preparation or getting to doctor's appointments says a new study published in "How Healthy are Canadians?", a supplement to Health Reports produced by Statistics Canada.

Just under 3 per cent of Canadians aged 25 to 46 years have experienced at least one manic episode suggestive of Bipolar I Disorder according to the data from the 2002 Canadian Community Health Survey: Mental Health and Well-being.

More than half of those also suffered from a major episode of depression along with the usual manic episodes of euphoria or unusual cheerfulness associated with the disorder, which usually manifests itself at the age of 19 years or slightly younger.

Although more than two thirds of those with the disorder consult a family doctor, psychiatrist or psychologist compared with slightly more than one fifth without the disorder, they are also more likely to have other mental and emotional problems, such as a chronic physical condition. For instance, 15 per cent had asthma, which is almost double the number for those without the disorder, and they are more likely to be obese.

However, despite the disruptive impact of Bipolar I, 69 per cent of people with the condition between the ages of 25 to 64 years were employed, a percentage that was only nine points below the corresponding proportion for those without the disorder.

The distinguishing feature between those with Bipolar I Disorder who had a job and those who did not was the availability of help with everyday chores. More than 25 per cent of those with the disorder reported that such help was available either infrequently or not at all.