Working through it
Question
Are there any jobs that can't be done by someone with a mental health problem?
Answer
Whether someone with mental health issues is able to perform a job or not depends entirely on the situation. Different people have different skills and abilities, regardless of their mental health, and so may be more or less suited to certain roles.
But it's important to remember that the range of mental health issues is vast, and some issues can be more serious than others. The symptoms of a mental illness cause problems for a person continuing in, or seeking new, employment (e.g. severe depression can reduce a person's self-esteem, confidence and motivation) and so could certain forms of medical treatment. For example, the side effects of some anti-psychotic drugs used to treat schizophrenia or manic depression (bipolar disorder) can cause people to become very drowsy or sedated, which can prevent them from working.
On the other hand, the responsibility, routine and commitment involved with being employed is well known for having therapeutic benefits for someone who has experienced, and learned to manage, a mental health issue. It provides more than just an income: employment can serve as a source of achievement, satisfaction, and a boost to self-esteem. It gives structure and purpose to the day and may offer opportunities for social contact and making friends. Work can also provide an identity and a stated role within society.
This means that, where possible, people with less severe mental health problems are actively encouraged to continue or seek employment. But in some cases, a person's mental health could pose limitations on the type of work they can do; this would be dependent on the individual circumstances.
If you would like more information about employment rights you can call the Disability Law Service on 020 7791 9800. They can provide information and advice regarding employment rights in relation to the Disability Discrimination Act.
Updated: 23/04/2010
Question answered by SANE
