The Interconnection between Mental Health, Work and Belonging: A Phenomenological Investigation

It is well-known that a sense of belonging is crucial in relation to gaining and maintaining sound mental health. Work is also known to be an essential aspect of recovery from mental health problems. However, there is scant knowledge of what a sense of belonging in the workplace represents. This stu...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The Indo-Pacific journal of phenomenology
Authors: Tangvald-Pedersen, Olav (Author) ; Bongaardt, Rob (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
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Published: Rhodes University [2017]
In: The Indo-Pacific journal of phenomenology
Standardized Subjects / Keyword chains:B Mental health / Work / Affiliation with
IxTheo Classification:ZA Social sciences
ZD Psychology
Online Access: Volltext (kostenfrei)
Description
Summary:It is well-known that a sense of belonging is crucial in relation to gaining and maintaining sound mental health. Work is also known to be an essential aspect of recovery from mental health problems. However, there is scant knowledge of what a sense of belonging in the workplace represents. This study explores the nature and meaning of a sense of belonging in the workplace as experienced by persons struggling with mental health issues.Using a descriptive phenomenological methodology, sixteen descriptions of the lived experience of belonging in the workplace were analyzed. The analysis reveals that the experience of belonging in the workplace is restricted and fragile until the moment one becomes accepted, but grows stronger and more resilient as one chooses how one wants to participate. Nonetheless, the sense of belonging is haunted by mixed emotions and ambivalence between the wish to be taken care of and the longing for professional appreciation.
ISSN:1445-7377
Contains:Enthalten in: The Indo-Pacific journal of phenomenology
Persistent identifiers:DOI: 10.1080/20797222.2017.1392759