A qualitative study on employment opportunities and social inclusion of persons with mental illness: Lived experiences.

Background: Across the Globe, including in India, significant changes have occurred in the Mental health policies, programs, and schemes for Persons With Mental Illness (PWMI). Gradually, people are becoming aware of the nature of mental illness. Many Bollywood actors are coming forward to share their mental health conditions and show how successfully they handle them. Despite all these efforts, even the recovered or recovering PWMI are still being denied their basic fundamental human rights, especially regarding selection and continuation of gainful employment along with social inclusion at the community level. Aim: Considering the above, the present study aimed to understand the lived experiences regarding the opportunities available for employment and social inclusion among PWMI in India. Material and Methods: The present study was based on a qualitative design. Patients who maintained well on treatment and had capabilities to be included in gainful employment, but were still facing difficulties in securing and maintaining regular employment, and faced discrimination in social inclusion in society, were assessed in detail by in-depth interviews after obtaining their due consent. Results: The main themes that emerged from the study were related to their own experience of the journey of recovery in terms of getting the opportunity for full participation in employment or to be acknowledged as a valuable person in their society rather than a patient. Conclusion: The present study's findings would enhance the understanding among health professionals, policy-makers, and community persons to plan and develop supportive programs/ social welfare services that treat PWMI as persons and involve them as productive members of society.