Study on stress-related mental health problems

The research is aimed at people who are on sick leave for stress-related mental health problems. The goal is to reduce mental illness and promote sustainable return to work.

Access to effective rehabilitation measures is limited and does not sufficiently yield a sustainable return to work. Therefore, the researchers invest in a digital and individually tailored effort with psychological support to increase accessibility and efficiency. The study will also involve the work environment in stress rehabilitation more clearly.

– Often, measures are primarily directed at the individual. By providing tailored support for changes in the work environment that may have contributed to the stress-related mental health problems, return to work is facilitated for the individual on sick leave, says Victoria Blom, Associate Professor of psychology and responsible for the study.

The program is evaluated through a randomized controlled trial with 180 participants randomized to two groups. One group carries out a customized rehabilitation program for six months with modules for cooperation between different welfare actors and return to work. The other is a control group that undergoes a program without these modules. The main effects that will be measured are stress-related mental illness and return to work after six and twelve months.

Interviews to evaluate collaboration

To investigate how the collaboration between the Social Insurance Agency, employers, and prescribing doctors works, the researchers will conduct interviews with representatives from the various actors. The interviews focus on possible shortcomings and room for improvement in collaboration.

– If we can simplify and streamline the collaboration between the various actors, the sick leave process will be smoother. It benefits both the individual and society, says Victoria Blom. We hope that this study will contribute to the development of a rehabilitation process that promotes a sustainable return to work for individuals on sick leave for stress-related mental illness.

The project's partners

The project is a collaboration between GIH, Linköping University, and Försäkringskassan. It is part of the E-PABS – a Center of Excellence in Physical Activity, healthy Brain functions and Sustainability at GIH.

• Read more about E-PABS
• Read more on Forte's website External link, opens in new window.