Impacts of stigma and discrimination in the workplace on people living with psychosis

Abstract Background. Employment holds many benefits for people living with psychosis. However, significant barriers to employment for this cohort appear to exist, notably stigma and discrimination against people living with serious mental health conditions. We asked: Would a qualitative sample including multiple stakeholder groups reveal similar results and if so, what would be the main impacts of such stigma and discrimination? Method. This analysis used data from a qualitative study that had applied focus groups and interviews to investigate the employment barriers and support needs of people living with psychosis, including views of the multiple stakeholders (such as those living with mental health conditions, health professionals, and employers). Results: The analyses confirmed the most frequently referenced barriers to employment were stigma and discrimination. The main impacts of workplace stigma and discrimination on people living with psychosis involved five areas: work avoidance, reluctance to disclose mental health conditions to employers, work-related stress, and reduced longevity of employment. Conclusions. As in earlier studies, the main barriers to employment for those living with psychosis were stigma and discrimination, and significant impacts from such stigma and discrimination were found in this study. The findings indicate a need to provide support mechanisms and to change the culture of workplaces to improve employment opportunities and outcomes for people living with psychosis.