ABSTRACT
A simple application for sick leave through my superannuation fund, and a later claim for workers’ compensation, led me through a dirty quagmire of psychiatrists’ reports that regarded me as some sort of object to be questioned on integrity and presentation, and were full of innuendos. Offi cial reports to my employer have included comments suggesting that I am casually attired, have unkempt hair and am somewhat disingenuous. These reports were made available to me, as well as to employers, union representatives and lawyers. My husband initiated legal proceedings on my behalf, as I lacked the energy and willpower required. As I write this, fi ve years later, my person-all that is me, defi nes me and describes me-is being scrutinised by offi cials in tall empty buildings who have the audacity to question the person I know as me. Patricia
While early intervention is advocated for a mental health
problem that is beginning to incapacitate an individual in
the workplace, actually implementing this may be quite
another story. Mental health problems are often not recog-
nised or acknowledged by the individual suffering from
them, and few consult a general practitioner. The WORC
(Work Outcomes Research and Cost-benefi t) project being
carried out in Australia indicates that less than 25 per cent of
those with depression are receiving treatment and a further
third of people with diagnosable levels of mental illness don’t
admit to having any condition.1
