[Social functioning of patients with schizophrenia who are employed and unemployed]

A group of 130 patients having been treated with schizophrenia for at least 5 years was examined. The patients were trying to get a job after at least one year leave. All subjects were examined twice: at the time of looking for a job and two years later. Adaptability level and the course of employment during the period of two years were assessed. It was found out that 40% of patients continued work after two years but majority of those were working in firm for disabled people. Professional work positively influenced the patients' self-dependence. It was proposed to motivate all patients treated with schizophrenia to start professional work.