Description
Citation:
Chimara M, Van Niekerk L & Van Biljon HM. (2022). Scoping review exploring vocational rehabilitation interventions for mental health service users with chronic mental illness in low-income to upper-middle-income countries. BMJ Open. 12:e059211. doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2021-059211.
Summary of the article
Vocational rehabilitation (VR) among mental health service users (MHSUs) with chronic mental illness remains an area of concern in low-income to upper-middle-income countries (L-UMICs). Although most of the global burden of mental disorders is concentrated in these contexts, public expenditure on mental health is very limited. Resources are predominantly directed towards institution-based care, often at the expense of comprehensive rehabilitation and work-focused interventions that support long-term participation and recovery. The purpose of this review was to map the current evidence on institution-based VR for MHSUs with chronic mental illness that fall within the occupational therapy scope of practice and originate in L-UMICs. The findings provide valuable insight into current practices, inform service development, and support advocacy for stronger investment in VR for MHSUs.
