Poor physical health: A major barrier to employment among individuals with serious mental illness

BACKGROUND: Physical health conditions are pervasive among individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) living in the community. And many individuals with SMI are unemployed despite their desire to work. OBJECTIVE: This study explored participants' perceptions of physical and mental health conditions as barriers to employment and the impact of such conditions on job-searching activities. METHODS: The participants (n = 162) reported their mental and physical health status and their employment-related activities and barriers over a 12-month study period. Frequency analysis and Chi-square tests were conducted to examine the relationship between the participants' perception on physical or mental health conditions as a barrier to employment and their conducted job-related activities. RESULTS: More participants reported physical health conditions than mental health conditions as a barrier to job-related activities. Participants' perception on physical health conditions as a barrier to employment significantly decreased job-related activities, while mental health conditions did not. In addition, more participants reported long-term physical health conditions as a barrier than short-term ones. Participants identified physical problems more frequently than mental health problems for limiting their work or other activities. CONCLUSIONS: Integrating care of physical health conditions in mental health services should be considered for improving employment participation and outcomes.