Restart - Return To Work After Long-tem Sickness Absence From Work. A Quasi-experimental Study
Year: 2010
Type: article
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: Background: People with long-term sickness absence due to diffuse health problems are difficult to rehabilitate back to work. In this quasi-experimental study 48 individuals with time-limited sickness benefit were recruited to a return to work (RTW) project. The intervention group (30) participated in a 12-month programme based on a cognitive approach with the aim of strengthening the individuals’ self-esteem and empowerment. The reference group (18) received rehabilitation as usual. Methods: Evaluation methods used for the study group were self-reported questionnaires at baseline, before intervention and at follow-up after 1 year. Results: One year after the intervention 27% had returned to full or part-time work and yet another 10% were in work training and 13% in rehabilitation/treatment with an optimistic back to work prognosis. In the reference group only 1 person had partially (25%) returned to work. Subjectively rated health (SRH) and sleep quality improved following the intervention. MADRS scores decreased during the year for the intervention group. The results support the idea that return to work is an important contributor to better self-perceived mental health for people who have been outside the labour market for a long time. Conclusion: The project shows that long-term sickness absence due to diffuse and subjective health problems is not a permanent condition even in participants with substantial work absences periods. In addition, the importance of structured co-operation between the authorities and the project leaders is supported by previous research.
Authors: Ann-Sophie Hansson, Per Lytsy, Ingrid Anderzén
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2101581011