The Work Ability of People with Mental Illnesses: A Conceptual Analysis

Yoshitomo Fukuura and Yukako Shigematsu
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Yoshitomo Fukuura: Department of Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, Kurume University, Kurume 830-0003, Fukuoka-ken, Japan
Yukako Shigematsu: Department of Nursing, School of Nursing, Kurume University, Kurume 830-0003, Fukuoka-ken, Japan

IJERPH, 2021, vol. 18, issue 19, 1-13

Abstract: Continuous employment is an important goal for many people with mental illnesses. However, job retention and absenteeism remain significant problems that deter their attempts at gaining financial independence, expanding interpersonal relationships, and developing self-esteem. Although there is consensus on the necessity of their proactive treatment and social participation, such support is currently underwhelming. Therefore, this study analyzes the conceptual framework for work ability of people with mental illnesses. We performed our investigations using Rodgers’ evolutionary conceptual analysis, targeting literature published from 1978 to 2020. Our search yielded 1420 articles in the Scopus inventory and 199 in PubMed. After exclusions, 13 articles remained. Using the same keywords in Google Scholar, we included 31 articles in our analysis. The attributes of work ability included the ability to self-manage, adaptability, the ability to dedicate oneself to work, and the ability to formulate plans. These were developed through a reiterative process. This study notes the importance of adjusting the work environment according to the patients’ condition. Therefore, the ability to cope with stress and workload, as well as active self-adjustment, are crucial skills that nurses can help develop after assessing the patient’s daily life. Furthermore, they can foster multidisciplinary collaboration and follow-up systems after employment.

Keywords: work ability; mental illness; employment; work environment; mental healthcare; rehabilitation; self-management; motivation; performance (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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