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Q How do mental health problems and treatment of these problems affect working life?
DESIGN
Qualitative study using focus groups.
SETTING
Leicestershire, UK.
PATIENTS
12 focus groups. 9 groups of patients who had anxiety and/or depression in the previous 2 years and used medication (6 groups: 35 patients [28–60 y, 63% women] from various work sectors; 3 groups: 19 patients [18–63 y, 74% women] attending anxiety management courses). 3 groups of 20 staff who had responsibility for human resources, personnel, and occupational health and safety (age not reported, 65% women).
METHODS
Each focus group session (approximately 90 min) was audiotaped and transcribed. Transcripts were analysed by sorting verbatim material into emergent themes using Knodel’s method. An expert panel reviewed the findings to discuss implications for practice.
MAIN FINDINGS
Impact on working life. Participants shared how their families, friends, or colleagues often recognised their depression or anxiety symptoms first. Typically, participants were unaware until a crisis occurred. Symptoms included nausea, headache, dizziness, trembling, lack of energy, tiredness, lack of concentration, extremes of …
Footnotes
For correspondence: Professor C Haslam, Institute of Work, Health and Organisations, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK. Cheryl.Haslamnottingham.ac.uk
Source of funding: Health and Safety Executive.