Does having an occupational mental health service make any difference?

Abstract

The effects of mental disorder on UK's workforce are increasing, yet most occupational health (OH) providers have limited expertise in dealing with mental health issues. To examine the effectiveness in terms of organizational and clinical outcomes, of an OH liaison psychiatry service in an inner city area. A retrospective survey of case notes from the first 2 years of an OH liaison psychiatry service was carried out. Seventy-six cases were identified and 68% were seen within 1 month of referral. After assessment, females were significantly more likely to be given a formal psychiatric diagnosis than males. Overall, 45% of patients had mood disorders, 14% anxiety disorders and two cases of psychosis were identified. Advice was offered to the referring OH practitioner in 80% of cases. This study found that liaison psychiatrists were able to fulfil a useful role in an OH department. Most of the cases seen within the department would not be classed as serious mental illness and therefore it is unlikely that community mental health teams would become involved in their routine care. Specialist mental health support from an 'in house' service is likely to be of considerable benefit from both occupational and medical perspectives.