VOCATIONAL PARTICIPATION AND SOCIAL INCLUSION: EXPERINCE OF WOMEN WITH FIBROMYALGIA

Background: Fibromyalgia is a common health condition among women resulting in enormous costs for the health care system. Employment rate of these women is generally low and many receive disability pension. The purpose of this... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
Fibromyalgia is a common health condition among women resulting in enormous costs for the health care system. Employment rate of these women is generally low and many receive disability pension. The purpose of this study was to explore the experience of women with fibromyalgia of factors influencing their overall occupational participation and feeling of social inclusion.
Method:
A qualitative approach was used and in-depth interviews taken with six women with fibromyalgia about their experiences of occupational and social participation. A thematic analysis was performed, applying the method of constant comparison. The results were reflected in the model underlying the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health.
Results:
The women´s occupational participation had changed enormously during the course of illness. Only one was still working, but withdrawal from employment was what had most impact on the women´s overall participation and feeling of inclusion. Personal factors, like positive attitude and resources, were helpful when dealing with limitations in activities. Rehabilitation had also been valuable, but only to a certain degree as vocational factors were not included. Societal values and attitudes together with policies and practices of the welfare system were seen as the greatest barriers to social inclusion.
Conclusion:
Being excluded from the labour market plays an important role in social participation, resulting in a feeling of decreased worth and not belonging to a society.
Application to Practice:
Vocational rehabilitation needs to be strengthened with emphasis on social and political changes to increase access to and flexibility in the labour market.