Mental health center staff views of employment for persons with serious mental illness

What is it about?

An online survey was developed and sent to 2,218 staff at four community mental health centers (CMHC) in one New England state. The survey collected quantitative and qualitative data about staff attitudes about employment for persons with serious mental illness. A mix of clinical and administrative staff participated in the survey (N=221). Staff views on the benefits of work, the ability of clients to handle the demands of the worker role, and client motivation to work were mixed. Staff with higher levels of education held significantly more supportive views than those with less education.

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Why is it important?

To increase employment among persons with serious mental illness, community mental health center administrative and clinical staff must consistently convey supportive attitudes about employment to their clients.