Journal Article Details

Citation:
Gao, N.; Eissenstat, S.J.; & Giacobbe, G. (2020). Poor physical health: A major barrier to employment among individuals with serious mental illness. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 52 (1), 101-108.
Title:
Poor physical health: A major barrier to employment among individuals with serious mental illness
Authors:
Gao, N.; Eissenstat, S.J.; & Giacobbe, G.
Year:
2020
Journal/Publication: 
Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation
Publisher:
IOS Press
DOI:
Full text:
Peer-reviewed?
Yes
NIDILRR-funded? 
Yes

Structured abstract:

Background:
Physical health conditions are pervasive among individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) living in the community. And many individuals with SMI are unemployed despite their desire to work.
Purpose:
This study explored participants’ perceptions of physical and mental health conditions as barriers to employment and the impact of such conditions on job-searching activities.
Data collection & analysis:
The participants (n?=?162) reported their mental and physical health status and their employment-related activities and barriers over a 12-month study period. Frequency analysis and Chi-square tests were conducted to examine the relationship between the participants’ perception on physical or mental health conditions as a barrier to employment and their conducted job-related activities.
Findings:
More participants reported physical health conditions than mental health conditions as a barrier to job-related activities. Participants’ perception on physical health conditions as a barrier to employment significantly decreased job-related activities, while mental health conditions did not. In addition, more participants reported long-term physical health conditions as a barrier than short-term ones. Participants identified physical problems more frequently than mental health problems for limiting their work or other activities.
Conclusions:
Integrating care of physical health conditions in mental health services should be considered for improving employment participation and outcomes.
Disabilities served:
Alcohol and drug abuse
Anxiety disorder
Bi-polar
Chronic mental illness
Chronic pain
Depression
Diabetes
Mobility impairment
Obesity
Obsessive compulsive disorder
Personality disorders
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Schizophrenia
Multiple disabilities
Interventions:
Supported employment
Vocational rehabilitation
Customized employment
Health and hygiene
Transition services
Outcomes:
Employment acquisition
Return to work
Full-time employment