Perspectives on the benefits and costs of employment and unemployment for people living with psychosis

Recent research indicates that paid employment is an important recovery goal for many people living with psychosis; however, employment rates among this group remain very low compared to the general population and people with physical disabilities. This study explored the perceived benefits and costs of paid employment and unemployment for people living with psychosis. The study draws on findings from a qualitative study of 137 people living in South East Queensland, Australia. Fourteen focus groups and 31 individual interviews were conducted with a purposive sample drawn from six stakeholder groups: clients living with psychosis, caregivers, health practitioners, employers, employment consultants, and community members. The most frequently perceived benefits of employment related to self-concept, personal satisfaction, and mental health benefits, while the most commonly perceived costs of employment were work-related stress, workrelated financial expenses, and the physical demands of work. The main perceived benefits of unemployment were freedom to pursue preferred activities, relief from work-related pressure, and improved access to entitlements. The most frequently referenced costs of unemployment were poor mental health, deskilling, and deconditioning. The findings provide insight into factors that may affect motivation and influence work-related decisions among people living with psychosis.