Navigating the intersection between professional success and severe mental illness: Success despite the odds

Abstract

This study analyzed 13 stories of successful individuals who have serious mental illnesses (SMI). Those who are diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar, or major depression, are more likely to be unemployed, and if working, have higher turnover, and work part-time in low paying jobs. Despite this fact, there are highly-educated and professionally-successful individuals with an SMI. I conducted a content analysis of published autobiographies of successful individuals who describe their experiences of navigating school, work, and their SMIs, to explore what major themes emerged from this group. My results suggested all the individuals faced significant challenges as a result of their disability but were able to use coping strategies including a strong drive, a belief that they could achieve their goals, a determination to face obstacles, and a drive to achieve their goals. In doing so, these individuals have shown that success in education and employment is possible despite their challenges. iii