Research Plus

Mental health RTW

A randomised controlled trial of a guidance-based return-to-work intervention for mental health-related absence found no significant improvement over usual care. A total of 240 police workers on sick leave with mental health problems were randomised to the OH intervention or usual care. Occupational physicians received three days’ training in delivering guidance-based care, based on workplace intervention (eg phased return, workplace adjustments and supervisor contact), graded activity and cognitive behavioural principles. It is suggested that the guidance-based intervention might be more successful in those with minor symptoms, and less effective for those with severe problems.

Journal of Occupational Medicine 2009; 51(3): 305–312.

Tags emergency services evidence based practice mental health Return to work

Occupational Health at Work August/September 2009 (vol. 06/2) pp40-41