The Challenges of Returning to Work After Mental Illness

In this episode of the Psych Central Show, hosts Gabe Howard and Vincent M. Wales discuss the challenges of returning to the workplace after being out for an extended amount of time, such as while recovering from mental illness. Gabe shares his first-hand experience of returning to work after four years, including the difficulties he faced, the resources he relied on, and what he wished he’d done differently. Also discussed are workplace discrimination, advocating for yourself, and the question of whether or not you should disclose your mental illness to your coworkers (and if so, to whom and when).   RETURNING TO WORK AFTER MENTAL ILLNESS SHOW HIGHLIGHTS   [0:59]               Gabe shares the story of returning to work after four years. [4:55]               How your therapist can help with your return to work. [6:37]               Skills and resources to make your return easier. [8:07]               Gabe tells of his experience with workplace discrimination. [9:14]               Should you disclose your mental illness to your coworkers? [11:02]             Potential positive results of disclosing your mental illness. [14:23]             What do we mean by “reasonable accommodations”? [18:36]                      Tips on being your own advocate.