This week is Mental Illness Awareness Week, recognizing the people with lived experience of mental illness and the research, development, and support services that help them live fully in their communities. This year’s theme is My Mental Health at Work. Studies have shown that work can be an important part of recovery for people with mental illness. Beyond the tangible benefits of income and insurance, work can contribute to goal setting and building self-confidence. It can also help in feeling connected to the community.
Here’s a quick look at some of the resources developed by the NIDILRR grantee community to support people with lived experience as they explore their employment options, return to the workforce, or aim for success in the workplace.
- For those starting out, the Learning and Working During the Transition to Adulthood Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC) has lots of factsheets, guides, infocomics, and more for young people with serious mental health condition who are exploring their employment options. Learn about accommodations, disclosure, working with vocational rehabilitation, and much more!
- For those on the employment journey, the RRTC on Improving Employment Outcomes for Individuals with Psychiatric Disabilities has an employment repository, using research to answer common questions about considering and choosing work, getting hired, and staying and succeeding on the job. The repository also has sections for family members to support a loved one on the path to employment. The Ask Me Anything About Employment webinar series features experts in employment research answering participant questions on a wide array of topics.
- For those exploring return to work, the RRTC on Community Living and Participation of Individuals with Serious Mental Illnesses has A Practical Guide for People with Mental Health Conditions Who Want to Work, providing essential information about work importance, rehabilitation programs, disclosure, and long term success. It can be used individually or in a group along with a Facilitators Manual.
- For those thinking about entrepreneurship or self-employment, Reclaiming Employment is an interactive online platform for people who have experienced mental health-related challenges around work. You can also check out briefs from the Self Employment Starts with You study of entrepreneurs with psychiatric disabilities and hear about their keys to success.
If you’re just starting out, exploring new career options, or looking for more support on the job, contact our information specialists to learn about local and national resources and research to help you on your career path!