Enabling the return-to-work process among people with affective disorders: a multiple-case study.

BACKGROUND: The Individual Enabling and Support (IES) model is an adapted, supported employment program developed to meet motivational, cognitive and time-use needs of people with affective disorders. Vocational programs for this target group have been developed but more knowledge is needed about the important characteristics and perceived usefulness of the programs. The aim of this study was to illustrate the IES model and process from multiple perspectives.

METHODS: Five participants were included in this multiple-case study. The material comprised interviews with participants, intervention documents, memos and interviews with employment specialists. Within and cross-case analyzes and an analytical generalization were performed.

RESULTS: The cases illustrated different IES processes, and the theme; Enabling engagement in return to work (RTW) was formulated. Continuous support from the employment specialist and a focus on personal resources and motivation were essential to overcome low self-confidence regarding RTW. Motivational, cognitive and time-use strategies gave an opportunity to learn new behavior and coping strategies for job seeking, getting employed and working.

CONCLUSION: Providing a combination of these strategies integrated with supported employment could promote self-efficacy and engagement in the RTW process among people on sick leave due to an affective disorder.