An evaluation of the impact of a work ready occupational therapy programme on mental health and well being for unemployed people

Introduction: Current literature suggests that unemployment can have a negative effect on mental health and well being, affecting an individual’s ability to become reemployed. There is limited research in the area of interventions which target people who are unemployed. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of an 8 week Work Ready occupational therapy program, on mental health and well being in unemployed people. Method: Quantitative measures were administered before and after the 8 eight week program to assess for changes in depressive symptoms, anxiety, self-esteem and coping. Four participants completed the pre and post measures. Results: The findings of the study suggest some positive trends in relation to mental health improvements following participation in the Work Ready Program. 75% of the sample group decreased in levels of depression and 100% of the sample group decreased in negative coping. These findings should be interpreted with caution considering the limitations of this study. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of the role which occupational therapists can play in reducing the negative effects of unemployment. There is a need for further research into effective occupational therapy programs with people who are unemployed to provide stronger evidence based practice in the area.