Implications of Temporary Incapacity Leave on Specific Mental Functions Among Individuals Diagnosed with a Common Mental Disorder

Abstract

Introduction: Common mental disorders (mood, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder and substance use disorder) are prevalent within the South African population and have a significant burden on the labour market. Symptoms of common mental disorders may lead to temporary psychosocial disability, and employees may need temporary incapacity leave. Prolonged temporary incapacity leave prevents the employee from experiencing the beneficial aspects of work, and early return to work is known to promote mental health and recovery from common mental disorders. Research Aim: This research aimed to explore the effects of temporary incapacity leave (3-24 months) on specific mental functions among those persons diagnosed with common mental disorders, as well as the severity of symptoms that influenced return or non-return to work in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methodology: A quantitative retrospective ten-year record review analysed the data obtained, which included non-identifiable demographical information as well as scores from the Zung Self-Report Anxiety or Depression Scale, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Repeatable Battery. Data was analysed using descriptive and correlation statistics. Results: Scores indicated below-average cognitive functioning and high levels of anxiety and depression at baseline. Correlation statistics indicated that visuospatial/ constructional skills and attention declined with clinical relevance. A negative weak correlation was found, indicating that anxiety and depression symptoms were unrelated to the times of the assessment. However, a moderate positive correlation indicated that the change in depression was associated with the length of time on incapacity leave between the first and the second review assessment. Conclusion: Recommending incapacity leave requires a holistic approach considering personal, job and environmental factors. Factors to consider when recommending temporary incapacity leave are age, nature of the disorder, profession, stress, decline in attention as well as visio-spatial skills, and lastly, the adverse effects of a loss of work identity on mood and anxiety symptoms.