Into work and out of mental illness – Speech

Doctor-notified sickness absence among young people due to mental disorders continues to increase, recent figures from Nav show. For young adults aged 25–29, 30 per cent of absences are now due to mental disorders. Annual expenses are in the billions. It is a loss for companies, society and the individual – and a worrying development that we must reverse. Some are too sick to work. But some also get sicker from not working. Research shows that work at its best and for most people is health-promoting. Working gives belonging and community, relationships and meaning. We know that this can be the best medicine for many who struggle with mental disorders. On behalf of employers, mental health practitioners and users of the health services, we call for more focus on the value of work. Today, another boost is needed to include more people with health challenges in working life, and to get them back when they fall. Being in work – a little or a lot – must be seen to a greater extent as part of the way out of mental illness. Mental health care combined with work-oriented measures is important. The same is the case with coming in early and providing an interdisciplinary offer where the healthcare system, employers and Nav collaborate. There are many good measures, but often people are called in sick without these being available. Psychologists must ask patients more actively about their challenges and opportunities in the workplace, and employers must invite openness at work. The government must step up work for inclusion in working life. Many still find it easier to tell their boss and colleagues about a bad back than an anxiety attack. When we know the damage caused by isolation and the value of togetherness, a possible way forward is to work for preventive openness. We need a working life that accepts that life can be difficult – and a follow-up of mental illness where work is given more space. Professionals, users and business agree on this shift. More openness in the workplace and greater job focus in the therapy room can realize an unfulfilled potential. Now we need the authorities to facilitate that. Published 10.06.2024, at 3 p.m



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