Views of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia on working life: A qualitative study

Abstract

Objectives: In the study, it was aimed to determine the views of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia with work experience about working life. Methods: The study has a descriptive qualitative design, one of the qualitative research methods. The study data were collected from 11 individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia through semi-structured interviews. For the selection of the individuals in the sample, the purposeful sampling method was used. Individuals with a history of at least 24 months of illness (schizophrenia), without hearing impairment, having worked or still working at a full or part-time job, and being diagnosed with schizophrenia, being in remission for at least 1 year were included in the study. The content analysis method was used in the analysis of the data. Results: Four main themes were obtained at the end of the study: Working Life as a Part of Life, Facilitators, Barriers and Suggestions/Expectations. Conclusion: For individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, working is a part of life and is of importance. On the other hand, while there are facilitators that enable individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia to be included in the working life, there are obstacles that make their working life difficult and keeping them away from working life. Mental health professionals’ awareness of working life, which is an important area in the recovery of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia and their visibility in the society, is of importance. Integration of the results obtained from the study into the content of psychosocial intervention programs created by mental health professionals for individuals with chronic mental illnesses and their making plans for the creation of an employment environment are of great importance.