Identifying Return to Work Perception in People With Serious Mental Illness: A Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Psychosocial Nursing
• Mental Health Services Research

Background:

• Return to work (RTW) is challenging for individuals with serious mental illness (SMI).
• Understanding RTW perceptions among SMI individuals is crucial for developing effective support strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the perceptions of people with SMI regarding returning to work.
• To explore the factors influencing RTW for individuals with SMI.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study using in-depth, semi-structured interviews.
• Conventional content analysis of 40 interviews with 24 participants (people with SMI, families, employers, mental health team).

Main Results:

• Two main themes emerged: 'The Need to Continue Working' and 'Flexible and Supportive Strategies'.
• 'The Need to Continue Working' included personal obligations and socioeconomic necessities.
• 'Flexible and Supportive Strategies' encompassed coping with mental illness, seeking support, and managing work conditions.

Conclusions:

• The necessity to maintain employment significantly impacts RTW perceptions for individuals with SMI.
• Flexible and supportive approaches are vital for facilitating RTW in this population.