Leadership Doesn’t Pause for Mental Health—and Neither Do I
Nonprofit leadership doesn't pause for mental health—and neither do I. But as someone living with bipolar disorder, I've learned that leadership often looks very different than what people expect.
Seasonal affective disorder doesn't just show up in the winter. For those of us with bipolar disorder, seasonal shifts can push symptoms in both directions. In the summer, longer days and disrupted routines can tip toward hypomania or mania. In the winter—especially with bipolar II—the lows can be deeper, heavier, and harder to climb out of.
Right now, the shorter days and lack of sunlight make everything take more effort. Decision-making slows. Motivation dips. Emotional regulation requires intention. And all of this happens while I'm still showing up as a visible leader, advocating, fundraising, planning, and holding space for others.
Some days, leadership looks like big-picture strategy, partnerships, and public joy. Other days, it looks like managing my capacity, sticking to routines that keep me grounded, and choosing sustainability over burnout.
Both are real leadership. Both matter.
I'm sharing this because mental health isn't separate from leadership—it's part of it. Disabled and neurodivergent leaders bring lived experience, empathy, and depth to our work. This perspective shapes how I lead, how I build community, and how I fight for systems that actually support people.
If you're leading while navigating bipolar disorder, seasonal affective disorder, or another mental health condition: you're not alone. And if you work alongside someone who is, your flexibility and understanding can make the difference between survival and sustainability.
Leadership doesn't require perfection. It requires honesty, support, and the space to be human.
As our world is turned upside down, please be kind and have compassion.
Vicki Landers speaks at a Disability Pride Pennsylvania celebration in PIttsburgh.
