IGLOO: A Framework for Return to Work Among Workers with Mental Health Problems

Abstract

It is important for society and for organizations to support workers returning to work following mental health-related absence. Recent evidence points to an increase in mental health problems among the general population, with approximately 38.2% of the EU population suffering from a mental disorder each year (European Commission 2008, 2016). Of those who take a period of sick leave, 55% of workers make unsuccessful attempts to return to work (RTW), and 68% of those who do return have less responsibility and are paid less than before (Matrix Insight 2013). A number of challenges have been reported by workers following a period of long-term sickness absence; however current research has been somewhat limited by a focus on the initial return and a siloed approach where work and non-work contexts are considered separately.