A report from the Australasian Faculty of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (AFOEM) * show that working is good for your health and not working for long periods can lead to higher incidences of injury, illness and disability.

The research shows that active participation in the workforce can dramatically improve the lives of those suffering from a mental illness or disability. It displays statistics that show that working improves general health and wellbeing, reduces psychological distress and assists in recovery.

It also validates the work of leading Disability Employment Services Group, Artius Employment in their offices in Ipswich and the Gold Coast, where they help more than 500 people with a disability per year to search, find and maintain jobs.

"We find the benefits to people finding suitable and supportive work are significant and extend far beyond financial rewards. Working also provides improvements in health, relationships, self esteem and confidence” Managing Director Paul Stokes commented today. "We are thrilled that the research confirms what we knew all along, that work is good for you, and not working can be bad for your health.”

The report refers to the work of Professor Sir Mansel Aylward who has summarised the evidence regarding being out of the workforce for long periods. Professor Aylward notes that long term worklessness:

•   provides the same health risk as smoking 10 packs of cigarettes per day;

•   increases suicide by 6 times; and

•   decreases life expectancy.

• About Artius

  Artius Employment provides a range of services to help those suffering with an illness, injury, disability or health condition that is preventing them from finding work, maintaining their job or returning to the workforce. With 8 offices throughout Queensland, the group is licensed to provide Disability Employment Services by the Australian Government.

  “Our team has been working hard for 6 years to help those in need find and maintain suitable work in the belief that having a job that offers a sense of purpose is sometimes the best medicine that anyone can offer,” said Managing Director Paul Stokes.

  Media note: Research undertaken by The Australasian Faculty of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (AFOEM), under the auspices of The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) and recently released the revised consensus statement, “Realising the Health Benefits of Work”.

  For information or to arrange a photograph please contact:

Rebecca Wilson

Stretch Marketing

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0408006176

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