Redefining the self : experiences of returning to work following mental health-related absences

Abstract

This qualitative study aimed to explore how employees make sense of their experiences on their returning to work, following mental health-related absences. For the purposes of this study, transition includes the process of adjusting back to work following mental health-related absences. Seven employees from the Maltese Public Service were interviewed. The criteria for participation included a minimum of one month of sickness absenteeism in relation to depression and anxiety. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Data revealed changes in the definition of sense of self. Five most notable themes emerged: a past working self, the mentally unwell self, the stigmatised self, an emerging self and a new working self. Findings suggest that during the transitional process to return-to-work, participants reached a critical turning point where they acknowledged both positive and negative aspects of their experiences. During this process, counselling facilitated the exploration of the self. The main conclusions particularly recognise the positive impact of honest, respectful, non-judgmental support on the employees' transition to work. Underpinning the recommendations is the emphasis on the concept of redefining the sense of self during the return-to-work process. Counselling research and practice need to give due importance to the integration of spirituality during the employees’ transitional experiences. Guidelines for sickness absenteeism in relation to mental health problems needs to be included in the national mental health policy for public service employees and the national mental health strategic plan.