Nigila Ravichandran
Adjunct Assistant Professor & Consultant Institute of Mental Health, Singapore
Title: Does Educational Level Influence Sustained Employment in Patients with Schizophrenia?
Biography
Biography: Nigila Ravichandran
Abstract
Background
Schizophrenia is a chronic mental illness causing significant socio-occupational impairment. Although occupational opportunities usually correspond with educational qualifications, research shows that several factors influence employment among mentally ill (1). Higher education correlates with better outcome with rehabilitative measures like cognitive training (2).
An observational study was conducted at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH), the tertiary mental healthcare and rehabilitation centre at Singapore, to identify major variables associated with employment among patients with Schizophrenia.
In Singapore, all residents receive at least primary level education.
Objectives
To explore whether educational status determines employability and job sustainability in persons with schizophrenia.
Methods
Residents of Singapore with DSM-IV diagnosis of Schizophrenia attending IMH clinics were included for study. Relevant data was collected from 120 consenting participants.
Results
Of the 120 participants, 49.2% had attained secondary education and 18.3% employed; 31.7% had university education and 15% were employed. In total, 38.3% were working at time of study and 60.8% in the past.
87.5% (43% secondary and 30% university educated respectively) participants had rehabilitation potential as expressed by self-interest and past employment.
Conclusions
Educational level only facilitates initial job-seeking and does not ensure long-term employment; but it improves potential for rehabilitation, which in turn enhances job sustainability in mentally unwell persons.