Influences on the Process of Work Integration: The Consumer Perspective

Despite evidence confirming the value of employment in promoting and maintaining mental health, efforts aimed at work integration of mental health consumers have met with limited success. Using qualitative research methods, this study explores the consumer perspective on factors influencing the process of employment integration. A sample of five consumers of the mental health system who were employed at the time of the study was used. Two data collection instruments, a semi-structured interview and demographic questionnaire, were utilized. The study draws on grounded theory (i.e., the constant comparative method of analysis) including unitizing, categorizing, and forming themes to process the data. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze demographic information. Four themes emerged from the data: (a) the importance of recognizing the mind-body connection, (b) the relationship of personal empowerment to work reintegration, (c) the need for skills and supports, and (d) the relationship of the work envir...