Practice guidelines: Therapeutic interventions aimed at assisting people with bipolar affective disorder achieve their vocational goals

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Tse, Samson

Affiliations: School of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health and Community, Otago Polytechnic, Private Bag 1910, Dunedin, New Zealand. Tel.: +64 3 479 6185; Fax: +64 3 474 0238; E-mail: samsont@tekotago.ac.nz

Abstract: Based on a thorough review of literature and findings from an earlier study on what are the factors helping individuals with bipolar disorder to find and remain in employment, the practice guidelines are proposed to aim at assisting individuals affected by bipolar disorder or other persistent mental disorder achieve their vocational goals. The proposed guidelines emphasise an integrated approach to the employment problem, incorporating clinical, vocational training and employment services. The guidelines advocate quick job placements as opposed to prolonged pre-vocational assessment and training are preferable for people with bipolar disorder in view of their usual high educational achievements and vocational experiences prior to the onset of illness. When necessary, a graduated approach to immediate placement may be adopted. Interventions proposed in these guidelines involve working with an individual client, mobilising support from family, workmates, managers, advising the employers on provision of support systems within the actual workplace and liaising with government agencies to reinforce client's aspiration to work.

Keywords: psychiatric disability, treatment, work rehabilitation

Journal: Work, vol. 19, no. 2, pp. 167-179, 2002