The attitudes of mental health professionals on the employability of people with mental illness: A different view limiting employment rehabilitation

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Mental health professionals are becoming increasingly involved in the process of employment rehabilitation of persons with psychiatric disabilities. However, few studies address the attitudes of these professionals toward the employability of those with mental illness. The aim of this research was to identify differences in the attitudes of medical and non‐medical mental health professionals, as well as to detect any association between attitude scores and the type of professional. Methods A sample of 140 employees from public and third sector mental health organizations answered a questionnaire using a scale measuring their attitudes and views on the employability of people with psychiatric disabilities. The psychometric characteristics of the scale are provided together with the variations detected in the professionals’ attitudes. Results This research shows that significant differences in the attitudes between medical and non‐medical mental health employees exist and that there is a need for the implementation of educational programs that may help to improve the attitudes of medical professionals toward the employability of people with mental illness. Conclusion This research indicates the importance of improving the professionals’ attitudes to support people attempting to return to work.

Keywords

• attitudes of health personnel
• employment
• people with disability
• surveys and questionnaires