The purpose of this research was to develop an understanding of important characteristics of supported housing (SH) for individuals with serious mental illnesses. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with residents of SH and service providers. Data were analyzed using the constant comparative approach. Four central themes emerged from data analysis: SH as a foundation for recovery, guiding values for SH, supports offered in SH, and neighbourhood/community context. This research has uncovered several key characteristics of SH that can be used to guide the development of new housing programs, to review current programs, as a tool for self-advocacy, and as the foci for further research.
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 environment to the outcome of work reintegration.
The topic of mental illness and work has been examined in terms of consumer needs and issues; however, there is limited research from the employers' perspective. The purpose of this study is to examine the experiences of employers who have supervised individuals with mental illness. This qualitative, grounded theory study consists of semistructured interviews with 5 employers (4 female, 1 male). Results and conclusions shed light on the needs of employers so that they may better facilitate the return to work or the maintenance of work of individuals with mental illness.
Despite the recent focus on work in community mental health, there has been little discussion about how consumers come to think about their future for work and careers. Little is known about how the experience of mental illnesses affects career development. Using a grounded theory approach, this study explores how consumers come to understand their potential for work. The findings confirm the importance of work and career development and the need to address these issues in community mental health services. Specifically, the analysis highlights how the experience of living with mental illnesses results in feelings of uncertainty about the future and doubt about one's capacity for work. This paper explores how mental illnesses interrupt and disrupt career development, and analyzes the process of how consumers begin to consider possibilities for the future and rebuild their identities as workers.The authors wish to thank the 10 participants who shared their insights and their experiences, and the program staff who assisted with recruitment. The study was conducted as part of the requirements of a Master of Science degree in the Graduate Department of Rehabilitation Science at the University of Toronto. Funding was received from a Canadian Graduate Scholarship from the Social Sciences and Humanities Council of Canada, an Ontario Graduate Scholarship, and the Canadian Occupational Therapy Foundation.
This research study portrays work initiatives for persons with serious mental illness in Canada. It considers 2 earlier papers on vocational programs and services to point out developments and current status in the field. Through a content analysis of documents collected from work initiatives across Canada, core values, models, and practices in the area of work integration are presented. Findings point to a consistent belief in the capacity of consumers to develop their work potential, to engage in the labour force, and to experience the many benefits of work. Results also reveal evidence of an increased emphasis on consumer initiatives, partnerships within the community, and negotiation of environmental factors, including workplace accommodations. Examples of work initiatives are provided, and suggestions for further research are offered.
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