Employment is a critical mental health intervention. (2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Drake, Robert E.; Wallach, Michael A.
• Is Part Of: Epidemiology and psychiatric sciences. Volume 29(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020
• Subjects: Community mental health, -- evidence-based psychiatry, -- health service research, -- psychiatric services; Epidemiology -- Periodicals; Mental illness -- Periodicals; Community psychiatry -- Periodicals; 362.2
• DOI: 10.1017/S2045796020000906
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2045-7960

Abstract

Abstract: Abstract employment is critically important in mental health care. Unemployment worsens mental health and gaining employment can improve mental health, even for people with the most serious mental illnesses. In this editorial, we argue for a new treatment paradigm in mental health that emphasises employment, because supported employment is an evidence-based intervention that can help the majority of people with mental health disability to succeed in integrated, competitive employment. Unlike most mental health treatments, employment engenders self-reliance and leads to other valued outcomes, including self-confidence, the respect of others, personal income and community integration. It is not only an effective short-term treatment but also one of the only interventions that lessen dependence on the mental health system over time.