In response to a joint (employee/employer) request from a health and social
services establishment, researchers funded by the Canadian Institut de
recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST) have designed
a program of practices for supporting a return to work after an absence due to
a mental health problem.

Based primarily on an analysis of work absence data and interviews conducted
with professionals for the purpose of identifying current practices, and on a
review of the scientific literature, the researchers succeeded in developing a
support process that promotes the recovery and return to work of persons with
such problems. In their project, the researchers brought to light the need for
a shift from a medical management approach to work absences, to a support
approach. This approach translated into the development of management practices
designed to help the workers, by means of a return-to-work preparatory
interview, to feel supported in difficult situations, to feel that they can
have an impact on their work and to feel respected and appreciated. The
researchers believe that the program they have developed is applicable to all
workplaces seeking to improve their return-to-work practices.

More information

AplusA-online.de - Source: European Agency for Safety and Health at Work