Employment
Work can be a big boost to a person’s recovery. Not only does a job help pay the bills, it can also provide a person with a sense of pride and belonging. It offers opportunities to connect with others socially. Unfortunately, the current rate of employment among people with mental illness is very low despite research evidence that strongly supports the critical impact that work plays in promoting recovery.
The Ohio Department of Mental Health (ODMH) is committed to helping consumers of mental health services locate, obtain and maintain employment. Through its Office of Consumer Recovery and Supports, ODMH provides technical assistance, consultation and training on recovery, wellness and individual self-sufficiency, including employment. In addition, ODMH state hospital staff can help consumers become informed about employment services and community recovery-oriented programs.
The Transformation State Incentive Grant
Employment-related opportunities and recommendations are being developed by the Employment Content Working Group of the Transformation State Incentive Grant. The Employment Content Working Group is a diverse group of consumers, family members and other key stakeholders who care about people affected by serious mental illness. The group recommends approaches that support good employment outcomes through the accelerated adoption of best employment practices and the key linkages required for their implementation.
For more information, visit the Transformation State Incentive Grant page.
Related Resources
- Map of One-Stop Career Centers across Ohio
All Ohioans can get help in finding a job at their local One-Stop Career Center. - Map of Work Incentives Planning & Assistance (WIPA) Projects
Many people who receive Social Security (SSI/SSDI) or Medicaid have questions about how going to work will impact their benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) funds local organizations to provide Benefits Information through qualified Benefits Counselors. - Social Security Work Incentives
Information is available from SSA through their online Redbook. - Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities (MBIWD) program
People receiving Medicaid because they have a disability can go to work and continue to receive Medicaid through this program. - Medicaid Buy-In posters can be downloaded to help communicate the advantages of Ohio's Medicaid Buy-In Initiative to consumers, families and advocates.
- SSA Ticket To Work (TTW) program
Most people who receive SSI/SSDI are eligible to receive employment services through this program. - Evidence-based supported employment
In some communities, evidence-based supported employment may be available through the local mental health agency or the local consumer-operated peer center. - Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission (ORSC)
People with physical, sensory, mental or emotional disabilities who need help going to work could be eligible for assistance from the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission (RSC). RSC has two vocational services bureaus: the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (BVR) and the Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired (BSVI).