Return to work after sick leave due to depression; a conceptual analysis based on perspectives of patients, supervisors and occupational physicians.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to investigate the most important factors facilitating a return to work after sick leave due to depression from the perspectives of patients, supervisors and occupational physicians.

METHODS

Concept mapping was used to develop a conceptual framework. Using purposive sampling, 32 participants representing Employees, supervisors and occupational physicians, were asked to formulate statements on what enables patients with sick leave due to depression to return to work. A total of 41 participants rated and grouped the statements. Data were analyzed using the statistical program Ariadne.

RESULTS

The concept mapping yielded 60 statements that consisted of promoting factors for return to work. Based on these statements, three meta-clusters and eight clusters were identified. The three meta-clusters consisted of work-related, person-related and healthcare- related clusters. The work-related meta-cluster comprised of "Adaptation of work", "Understanding and support in the workplace" and "Positive work experiences". The person- related meta-cluster encompassed "Positive and valid self-perception", "Competence in self management", "Positive level of energy", and "Balanced home/work environment". The healthcare-related meta-cluster was composed of "Supportive healthcare". Stakeholder groups differ in opinion, in what they see as most important for return to work.

LIMITATIONS

The low number of participants and the high educational level of participants are a limitation for generalization of the findings.

CONCLUSIONS

The study generated different statements that stakeholders consider important for return to work after sick leave due to depression. These findings can be used as a checklist for coordination of the return to work process. Differences in opinion regarding what stakeholders see as most important for return to work should receive special consideration during the re-integration process.