Decision (not) to disclose mental health conditions or substance abuse in the work environment: a multiperspective focus group study within the military.
Rebecca BogaersElbert GeuzeJaap van WeeghelFenna LeijtenNicolas RüschDike van de MheenPiia VarisAndrea RozemaEvelien BrouwersPublished in: BMJ open (2021)
Almost all barriers (and facilitators) were related to fear for stigma and discrimination. This was acknowledged by all three perspectives, suggesting that stigma and discrimination are considerable barriers to sustainable employment and well-being. Supervisor knowledge, attitudes and behaviour were critical for disclosure, and supervisors thus have a key role in improving health, well-being and sustainable employment for soldiers with MHC/SA. Furthermore, adjustments could be made by the military on a policy level, to take away some of the fears that soldiers have when disclosing MHC/SA.