Affiliations: School of Health Sciences and Social Care, Brunel
University, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UK
Note: [] Corresponding author: Dr. Alison Blank, School of Health
Sciences and Social Care, Mary Seacole Building, Brunel University, Kingston
Lane, Uxbridge UB83PH, UK. Tel.: +44 1895 268738; Fax: +44 1895 269853; E-mail:
alison.blank@brunel.ac.uk
Abstract: Research into mental health and employment has indicated that work
holds multiple meanings for people with mental health problems. This paper
reports findings from a phenomenological study which aimed to understand the
complexity of these meanings by exploration of the perspectives of one
individual who was considering returning to work. Data were gathered through a
series of three interviews carried out over a period of 18 months. Three themes
were identified – Beliefs and Values about Work, Working with a Mental
Health Problem, and Planning for the Future. Analysis and interpretation
facilitated understandings of what work represented for the participant. What
this study has contributed to the evidence base is a deeper understanding of
the multiple meanings of work, and the varied roles that work may play in
contributing to meaning and quality of life for people with mental health
problems.
Keywords: Employment, recovery, meaningful occupation, longitudinal, case study
