Mental health

'Mental health condition’, ‘mental illness’, 'psychosocial disability' and other terms, are used to describe a range of disorders that can affect thoughts, emotions and behaviours, that vary in both severity and duration. These conditions can include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, substance use, schizophrenia and many others.

Recent studies show 43% of Australians have experienced mental health challenges in their lifetime.

Everybody's lived experience of mental ill-health is different. While some people may not be significantly impacted in their daily lives, others may face severe challenges in functioning within the community, at home, and in the workplace. When a mental health condition severely affects a person's daily life, self-care and community participation, it may be considered a 'psychosocial disability'.

Whilst labels like 'disability' may not be relevant to some people's experience, it is important to understand the criteria which can unlock access to vital support schemes, like Disability Employment Services and NDIS Services.

Disability Employment Services

At Castle, we have seen first-hand the impact employment can have on the health and well-being of people living with mental health conditions, and research agrees that with the right support, they can thrive in the workplace.

If you live with anxiety, depression or another mental health condition, and receive a Centrelink payment of some kind,you may be eligible for our Disability Employment Services (DES). You don't necessarily need to be diagnosed with a 'psychosocial disability', only that your mental health condition affects your capacity to work in some way. This can be verified by a treating medical practitioner through this Centrelink form.

When you are ready to find, maintain or return to work, we can support you to achieve your employment goals.

NDIS Services

If a person's mental health condition is considered a 'psychosocial disability', they may be eligible for NDIS support, however, a diagnosis of a condition in itself is not enough. In order to be eligible for funding through the NDIS, a psychosocial disability assessment must be carried out.

Whilst Castle does not offer mental health treatment or recovery services, eligible NDIS participants may be able to access our Social, Capacity Building and School Leaver Employment Support (SLES) programs.

How we help

When it comes to finding a job, no two journeys are the same. This is especially true for people living with a mental health condition.

That's why you will have a dedicated team that will meet you wherever you are on your journey.

1. Your Case Officer will get to know you, understand your goals and address any challenges along the way. If you're ready to work, great! If not, we will assist you with developing your skills, resume and cover letter creation, job searching and interview preparation.
2. Next, your Account Officer will market you to employers to help you find a job that is right for you. Using our network of supportive local businesses, together we explore your options and then promote your abilities directly to employers, supporting you at every step of the application process.
3. Finally, once you start your new job, your Employment Support Officer will support you to adjust and build confidence in the role. To give you the best chance of success we can help with transportation, training, workplace modification and liaise with managers, for as long as you need.

Along the way, we work closely with specialist mental health partners and health professionals who can provide expert mental health care and advice to set you up for success in the workplace. This can include;

• putting in place any recommended adjustments to tasks, routines and schedules
• adjustments to the physical workspace
• training managers in handling mental health crises that may occur
• checking in with you and your manager regularly
• ensure that you are equipped for work in the best way

Benefits of work on mental health

If you're having a tough time, working might be the last thing on your mind. However, with the right support, research shows that work has been shown to benefit the health and well-being of people living with a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders and schizophrenia.

Some people find that working has a positive effect on their mental health:

• Aiding recovery and support treatment times
• Giving a sense of purpose, goal setting and achievement
• Promoting social connection and makes us feel we are part of a group
• Building a routine in our day-to-day life
• Providing financial security, leading to greater freedom and independence

Studies have shown that long-term unemployment can have serious consequences for mental health.

"People with mental health problems are more likely to be out of work, and are more likely to experience insomnia, a downward spiral of long term work absence and unemployment, further deterioration in mental health and reduced chances of gaining employment, and to have higher rates of risk factors for psychological disorders"
(Realising the Health Benefits of Work, 2011)

Starting (or re-starting) your employment journey is not without its own set of challenges, but research suggests that overall, work is beneficial for mental health.

When you're ready, we're here to help.