Affiliations: Suicide Studies Unit, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Yvonne Bergmans, Suicide Studies
Unit, Arthur Sommer Rotenberg Chair in Suicide Studies, 30 Bond St., 2 Shuter
Wing 2-010c, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada. Tel.: +1 416 864 6060 ext. 4078; Fax:
+1 416 864 5996; E-mail: bergmansy@smh.toronto.on.ca
Abstract: Background: The experiences and barriers associated with the return
to paid employment following healing from recurrent suicide attempts related to
mental illness have not been addressed in the literature to date. Method: This paper is a collaborative case study between graduates (experts by
experience) and facilitators of a psychosocial/psychoeducational group for
people with recurrent suicide attempts. The journeys taken by the experts by
experience are explored through thematic narrative analysis. Findings/Results: Issues of stigma, disclosure, accommodations, maintaining
wellness and coming to re-define a sense of self were consistent themes found
throughout all narratives. Conclusions: The paper identified key areas of
challenge and celebration, suggesting the need for enhanced support from health
care providers, workplace managers, supervisors and colleagues for successful
transitions into the workplace.
Keywords: Mental illness, suicide, return to work, stigma
