Cognitive work hardening for return to work following depression: An intervention study: Le réentraînement cognitif au travail pour favoriser le retour au travail à la suite d'une dépression : étude d'intervention

Abstract

Background: Work absences due to depression are prevalent; however, few interventions exist to address the return-to-work challenges following a depressive episode.

Purpose: This mixed-methods study aimed to (a) evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive work hardening in preparing people with depression to return to work and (b) identify key elements of the intervention.

Method: A single group ( n = 21) pretest-posttest study design was used incorporating self-report measures (Work Ability Index, Multidimensional Assessment of Fatigue, Beck Depression Inventory II) with interviews at intervention completion and at 3-month follow-up. Descriptive statistics, paired-samples t test, and content analysis were used to analyze the data.

Findings: Work ability, fatigue, and depression severity significantly improved postintervention. Participants identified structure, work simulations, realism of simulated work environment, support, and education as key intervention elements.

Implications: Findings underscore an occupationally focused return-to-work intervention for people recovering from depression with potential for wider adoption and future research.

Keywords: Cognitive function; Ergothérapie; Fonction cognitive; Mental health; Occupational therapy; Réadaptation professionnelle; Réintégration au travail; Santé mentale; Vocational rehabilitation; Work reintegration.