Looking for a job can be daunting and knowing where to start and how to prepare is a big task. If you have a mental illness, it is important that you:
- carefully consider the sort of work that matches your skills and can accommodate your illness
- explore whether or not potential employers have awareness of mental illness and can provide relevant supportive work practices, for example, you may like to enquire about flexible work policies with the human resource department, or ask your employment service provider what they know about the organisation
- develop an awareness about the sorts of stresses and triggers that impact on your mental health, and strategies or workplace accommodations that can assist you in managing these
- consider whether or not to disclose your mental illness to your employer
The good news is that supportive services are available to assist you to do these things, and more.
Australian Government employment service providers, such as Job Services Australia providers and Disability Employment Services, assist people with disability or mental illness to get into the workforce, including support and assistance to maintain a job. They provide a range of services. Some Australian Government employment service providers specialise in assisting people who have a mental illness and can help you manage it well, while working.
Australian Government employment service providers can individually tailor their service to your needs, focussing on your strengths and abilities, and the barriers you face in obtaining employment. They can provide a range of supportive services:
The JobAccess Advisers can provide you with specific advice, contact them on 1800 464 800.