Factors associated with return to work among disability claimants with depression

Depression is a significant contributor to the burden of disease globally and is often associated with reduced work productivity and permanent disability.

This study aimed to identify factors associated with return to work among disability claimants with depression at one insurer in South Africa.

A retrospective cohort study was conducted with 514 disability claims. Univariate tests for association (Chi-square and Fisher) were performed to test the significance of the association between the primary outcome (disability benefit terminated as a result of return to work) and demographic and workplace factors.

The majority of disability claimants were women (71.6%). Women and claimants under the age of 60 years at the time of benefit termination had a high probability of returning to work, 80% and 99% respectively. Of the 39% of claimants who had a high level of workplace support during the disability process, 95% also returned to work. Nearly half (48%) of the disability claimants returned to work in less than 6 months, while most of those with a duration of disability longer than 24 months did not return to work (79%).

Female gender, lower age (under 60 years), high workplace support and shorter duration of disability were all positively associated with return to work for disability claimants with depression.

This study provides insights into factors associated with successful return to work for disability claimants with depression, which can guide case management and rehabilitation for this population.