Mental health and work

Mental health and work

University of Tilburg, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioural Sciences

People with mental health problems are much more likely to be unemployed than psychologically healthy people. That’s not always due to their illness; research has shown that such factors as prejudice and discrimination play a major role. The Tilburg researchers aim to promote greater public attention and awareness for this problem so as to increase labour market participation by people with mental health problems.

They do this by utilising their network of journalists (newspapers, radio, magazines) and national organisations (newsletters, websites) and by producing specific publications and practical aids for relevant professionals (occupational health physicians, occupational health and safety experts, occupational psychologists) and policymakers. Information for the general public is provided, for example in the form of YouTube videos.

The researchers collaborate with various partners. In cooperation with the Ministry of Defence, for example, a PhD study is taking place on the stigma of mental health problems as a barrier to sustainable employability; this has already been applied in practice in the form of a workshop for employers.

The research group will use the grant from the Rewarded! Fund to produce an informative film aimed at occupational health physicians, insurance company medical advisers, practice assistants, and occupational health nurses.

Websites:
Tilburg University – Arbeid en gezondheid
RTL nieuws – Managers nemen minder vaak mensen met psychische problemen aan

Coordinator:
Evelien Brouwers, hoogleraar

Other group members:
Jaap van Weeghel, hoogleraar
Kim Janssens, promovendus
Rebecca Bogaers, promovendus
Margot Joosen, onderzoeker