The Impact of Long Term Unemployment on Women's Mental Health - Report Example

The Impact of Long Term Unemployment on Womens Mental Health The Impact of Long Term Unemployment on Womens Mental Health Introduction Long-term unemployment has been identified as one of the causes of poor mental health. It constitutes joblessness or lack of employment opportunities over a long duration of time. This situation may be very extreme, hence leading to economic and social effects on the part of unemployed person. In this research, women who were selected participants had experienced or were undergoing long-term unemployment. It is a serious situation that precipitates the development of mental health problems among women (Alasuutari et al, 2009: 65). This pilot study seeks to establish the rate of unemployment in relation to mental health issues. In addition, it establishes the differences that exist among women with regard to how the situation of unemployment for such longer durations affects them. For instance, some develop mild mental health problems while others experience acute mental health issues. This research considers different levels of education among the unemployed women, in relation to those with and those without college education. It compares different aspects within the spectrum of unemployment and considers the different working ages that are more susceptible to long-term unemployment. For instance the major age consideration in this research is the age bracket between 16 and 64. Design: Qualitative research method (interview and observation), content and thematic analysis of the results. Key words (long-term Unemployment, Women’s mental health, economic pressure) Background Long-term unemployment is a product of various sets of factors of economy. For instance the great economic recession led to gross loss of employment that caused long-term unemployment due to lack of jobs that could not be replaced in short periods. In America for instance, the ailing economy has been the major cause of long-term unemployment that economically hit hard on those who are not employed (Alasuutari et al, 2009: 65). Psychologically, these people are much affected that they begin to experience problems with their mental health. It is therefore imperative to understand the extent of the effects and the dangers associated with the longer periods of joblessness. Among the long term unemployed people, 60% believe they have enough knowledge and skills that they can use to secure employment. They believe in their requisite abilities to be competitive in the job market, but the only problem is the lack of such opportunity. As explained, the economic conditions have so far been identified as the major cause of long-term unemployment (Berkman and Kawachi, 2000: pg. 132). Mental health problems emanate as a result of stress and low self-esteem that follows longer periods of unemployment. Financial problems are the result of the anxiety and stress due to the fact that most of them have squandered their savings or have secured loans from different people. Some have also lost their property due to their financial inability to repay the loans, and relatives and friends who were borrowed money have also been up their sleeves. These are just some of the precipitating factors that lead to the development of health problems. Mental health issues arising from long-term unemployment are a serious problem that different countries face. The best way to solve it is by trying to solve the problems created by unemployment (Berkman and Kawachi, 2000: pg. 132). The conditions created by longer periods of unemployment are so devastating because people need finances to solve many of the economic and social problems. Method During this research, a qualitative study was conducted through an interview of those who were found to have been unemployed for very long periods. A convenience sample that could represent more than 5 million unemployed was selected (Bell, 2005: 76). These were 880 unemployed recruited to investigate if indeed there was any mental health problem associated with unemployment, and to determine the adversity of such effects. The research sample selected had an average age of 40(n=40), covering ages between 18 and 64 years. Most of them had not been employed since their 18th birthday for almost a period of four years. Others reported having lost their jobs 1-2 years and have not been able to secure other job opportunities (Beresford, 2003: pg. 123). Their levels of education ranged from 12th great to college level with the majority between 12th grade and diploma (n=600). Few of them interviewed had baccalaureate and master’s degrees (n=120) and (n=4). It was also deemed necessary to interview psychiatrists who dealt with patients with mental problems so as to help identify if indeed among those whom they dealt with were products of long-term unemployed. 12 psychiatrists were recruited and 4 psychologists. They were interviewed to determine the nature of the patients they dealt with, if at all there were victims of long-term unemployed (Becker, 1963; p. 88). Data Collection The sample of unemployed was interviewed individually for approximately 1.5 hours in a setting of their choice, most especially in an empty area or their most preferred joints or café. Open-ended questions were employed to stimulate the stories of the unemployed as far as longer periods of joblessness were concerned (Boud et al, 1985: pg. 123). More specific questions were also asked in order to make them give more relevant details such as (“What can you say about your situation given the fact that you have been going for months without any source of livelihood? What are some of the challenges you have experienced so far since you lost your job? How do you cope with stress and anxiety that you experience due to joblessness?” Both the psychiatrists and psychologists were also interviewed for approximately 1 hour in their offices or any place of their choice. They were also asked open-ended questions and provided with rigid questionnaires. Questions asked included, (Among the clients of mental health have you ever experienced cases resulting from long-term employment? Is there any difference between the women situation and that of men? What is the relationship between the mental health problems and the rate of unemployment? Most of the unemployed who were interviewed demonstrated certain distress levels. They elaborated how bad it feels to go for longer periods from the loss of the previous job without securing any employment opportunity yet (Boud et al, 1985). Most of the women cited several cases that make them stressed as a result of long-term unemployment. They constantly experienced psychological torture when they realize they cannot afford most of the things they need in their lives, when they cannot keep up with the bills, and when they are forced to sell most of their property to cater for some necessities and debts owed to both relatives and friends. Most of the long-term unemployed cited economic factors to have direct and heavier effects on them than personal factors. The country’s economic issues were cited as the major contributor of long-term unemployment (Bryman, 2012: 145). Lack of enough job opportunities within their geographical areas, economic problems in certain industries, taking of some of the important opportunities oversees hence limiting the chances of the locals to get employed in such sectors and many other factors were cited as the reasons long-term unemployment has persisted. They also complained that the society has also not done enough to reduce the joblessness of women (Burgess, 1991: pg. 41). In order to establish how long-term unemployment had affected them, when asked about their physical health, they majorly used words like “poor”, and “fair” and many others that negatively definers. Psychologists interviewed differently emphasized that long-term employment was a contributing factor to the many cases of patients diagnosed of mental health problems. They identified the vulnerability of women to unemployment, most especially when such women had no one to support them and their needs. The psychiatrists observed that mental health problems were so much related with poor physical health of the women diagnosed of mental health problems. They noted that most of the women who had mental health problems due to long-term unemployment had a lot of anxiety and stress (Crang, and Cook, 2007: 221). Data Analysis Content analysis technique was used to analyze the data collected. Content was analyzed with regard to the information provided by the long-term unemployed and both the psychiatrists and psychologists to determine the rate at which women were affected with long-term unemployment. A thematic analysis was also undertaken to determine the challenges long-term unemployment posed for women. Ten of the interviews collected were reviewed with respect to the questions asked during the interview process (Hanley, 2005: pg. 10). After the analysis of the ten interviews, six from the unemployed and two from psychologist and another set of two interviews drawn from the observations of the psychiatrists, a common problem of the long-term unemployed women was established. Other studies were also adopted to help on a side by side comparison of the results in the process of re-contextualizing interpretations and implications of the studies. Direct quotations of both the mental health professional (Psychologists and psychiatrists) and those of the unemployed were used alongside clear decision trail in the field notes and journals with elaborated salient points to ascertain the trustworthiness of the findings of the study. Some of the researchers undertook an in-depth discussion on the analytic decisions the analysis was validated through sharing it with some of the participants. One psychologist, one psychiatrist and two of the long-term unemployed women confirmed the practical and empirical validity of the findings (Matthews and Ross, 2010: pg. 153). Findings Characteristic of long-term Unemployment The study revealed that 3% of all the non-elderly persons are the most affected with long-term unemployment. They have not been able to secure employment for the last one year and more, though many have been in such unemployed situations for a long time. 54% of all unemployed women have been without a job for the last two year while 26% have been without a job for more than three years. They are however no so young and are averagely older hence are not part of the full-time working population. Some of the unemployed women are in pre-retirement ages between 50 and 64 years of age, as compared to 135 percent of full time workers (Matthews and Ross, 2010: pg. 153). On the level of education, only 11% of the long-term unemployed possessed college degree, as compared to full time workers who are 13% of those with college degrees. About 49 percent of the unemployed women had high school or less education. Most of the unemployed 59 percent admitted that the losses of their previous jobs were due to their employers’ decisions while only 11% admit voluntary resignation; leaving their previous jobs out of their own volition. Among them, 51% lost jobs in which they had been doing two years or less. 18 percent agreed that they had been working for ten or more years in their jobs that they lost. It was also evident that the long-term unemployed women who had left their previous jobs were not well remunerated. With a majority earning learning less than USD 30, 000 annually but only 6% registered an annual earning of USD 75, 000 (Hanley, 2005: pg. 12). Majority of the Long-term Unemployed face a lot Financial Challenges The study found out that 31 percent of long-term unemployed live at least with one full-time worker. Most of them point out that the one full-time worker is the income source that provides for majority of the household requirements. The long-term unemployed women depend on the money from their husbands, which is if married or from friends and relative mostly is not married. They would need to source money from those responsible for them or friends 9in order to accomplish most of the necessities. When the long-term unemployed women were asked during interviewed to evaluate their financial position, they cited being “broke”, “bad” and “poor”. Majority of the long-term unemployed admit taking money out of their savings or retirement money in order to pay bills. These comprise 59% of the long-term unemployed, 53% have been informed for property collection by collection agencies, 51% borrowed money from friends and relatives in order to pay bills. 52 percent sold their personal property, 47 % could not pay rent or mortgage in an easy way and 44% had food problems (Matthews and Ross, 2010: pg. 153). 33% were forced to alter the way they lived initially after it became apparent they could not be able to pay their bills. 23 percent increased credit card debt for the payment of bills. 23 percent saw their utilities while15% postponed marriage. 9% percent were evicted and hence losing their homes. These financial stresses cause a lot of psychological and emotional distress leading to the development of mental health problems (Ritchie and Lewis, 2003: pg. 43). Many Long-term Unemployed Admit both Physical and Mental Health Of the unemployed women, 38% of them report issues with physical issues. Some indicate the existence of no problem with regard to long-term employment, but the majority admitted having a lot of psychological problems as they think of how they will offset the bills and take care of other expenses. The psychologists observed that longer periods of stress and anxiety makes one susceptible to developing mental health problems. Most of the interviewed indicated that their mental health was poor or only fair. 33 percent of the long-termed are likely to admit that their mental health has grown worse due lack of employment. 19 percent acknowledge that their mental health has further worsened their attempts to look for other jobs (Matthews and Ross, 2010: pg. 153). 65 percent of the women who have not been employed for long periods and who have the duty to pay their bills and make ends meet explain that they experience difficulties with sleeping. Loss of weight then follows but when this begins a lot of psychological torture gets in. 21 percent admitted having sought the health of medical professionals or psychologists in order to help them deal with their mental problems. 10 percent revealed that they are on medication taking prescriptions for mental health problems. 9 percent say that due to their stresses, they have increased their consumption of drugs or alcohol thinking that that helps in dealing with stress levels. Due to long periods of unemployment, one is not able to access and afford sufficient medication. They cannot afford paying for insurance covers. This then means that they cannot help mitigating the proliferating factors of mental health problems. Small mental issues grow and become serious if they cannot be well handled mostly at the primary stages. Due to loss of jobs they were uninsured and accessing medical services becomes extremely difficult when one cannot afford medical bills. 73 percent of long-term unemployed women admit that they delay treatment due to high cost of the medication. They also admit that in most cases they rely on emergency services more than those who are on full time employment. Skipping or delaying of medical check-ups is in itself very dangerous leading to the proliferation of many health issues. The long-term unemployed women experience both economic and social challenges in as far as employment is concerned (Ritchie and Lewis, 2003: pg. 43). Long-term unemployment is devastating to women, mostly those with a range of demands. As discussed above, people without real time employment lack the financial ability of accessing many of the basic necessities. For instance, they are not able to afford enough food, medication and other important things in life. As a result, they begin to develop stress and anxiety as frustrations continues to amount. These are some of the two aspects that precipitate the development of mental health problems. Due to lack of employment for a long time, the economic problems of a poorly performing economy impact negatively on the unemployed women. The economy exerts a lot of pressure on them, creating more psychological problems. During the interview participant provided in detail the nature of their situation with regard to the economy. They admitted that unemployment contributes in causing mental health problems. There are also previous studies that indicated that lack of employment after long periods creates a long list of problems. The study by Kaiser Family Foundation/NPR of December 2011 for example, found out that there are both physical and mental health concerns that emanate from long-term unemployment. In their survey they identified lack of money to access medical care as being one of the factors that precipitate the proliferation of mental health problems for women who have not been employed for a very long time (Matthews and Ross, 2010: pg. 153). Physicians, psychologists and other professionals contacted during this study identified that long-term unemployment creates a sense of insecurity, when one is not able to keep up with the bills. They noted stress and anxiety as factors that contribute to the development of mental health problems. Lack of money for medical check-ups on regular basis increases chances of developing problems with the mental health. This is because they may not be detected at the primary stages of their development. Findings from this study illustrate that women are at their vulnerability when they do not have jobs or have been unemployed for a very long-time. The economic forces are too heavy to bear with making those who are unemployed to fall short of offsetting their bills. Mental problems develop thereafter because the economic forces create in stress since one cannot be able cope up. It is therefore a concern that mental health problems usually develop slowly such that in the absence of regular medical check-up, serious mental problems may be seen. It is only important that a country works towards achieving economic stability that creates jobs in order to alienate poverty (Crang, and Cook, 2007: 221). Unemployment causes a series of problems for women. A lot of anxiety and stress occur due to inability to afford most of the necessities. Women who are unemployed begin to experience numerous psychological torture and problems. The most important thing is for one to seek medical attention when the primary stages of these problems are suspected. On the contrary, due to unemployment one cannot afford such regular examinations. The conditions continue to develop from bad to worse if they cannot be handled at their primary stages. The inability to pay for health care is serious concern and may cause advance the development of mental problems. The best way to solve this health situation is by eliminating barriers to employment and employing many people to reduce the rate of unemployment. Reflective Evaluation In this research, I have chosen to focus my inquisition in an exceptional area of study, where I attempt to show association between unemployment among women and poor mental health condition. I seek to indicate that unemployed women present mental health problems when compared to their counterparts on employment (Kornstein, and Clayton, 2004; p. 53). Further, I suggest that some unemployed women have suffered Depression and Attention Deficient Hyperactive Disorder. This position is supported by previous studies that have also generated exciting findings about this area. On the other hand, I also confirm that some unemployed women do not exhibit these mental predicaments (Warr, 1987; p. 35). The study I have chosen meets rational tests since it provides additional knowledge regarding the effects of unemployment on women mental health status as well as suggesting appropriate techniques for minimizing such impacts. The study proposes diverse research methodologies such as comprehensive case studies (Bell, 2005; p. 51). This paper is a personal reflective and evaluation of the proposed research project in order to provide a review of the whole research activities. This assignment is significant because it provides a comprehension of the theoretical and methodological aspects of the research as well as personal thoughts about the learning incidences throughout the process. I have critically presented theoretical support for this study and mentions previous investigations in the same area (Deryck B, 2004; p. 67). Indeed, I have indicated a research, which studied the work patterns of different females over a year. In this previous study, the investigators proposed that women who remained unemployed for over five months exhibited depression signs than those who were unemployed for lesser periods (Bruce, 1998; p. 44). I have also critically looked at the Deprivation Theory of Unemployment developed by Jahoda to support this study. Jahoda’s theory provides sufficient grounds for hypothetical analysis in the proposed study. The theory posits that class, age, and societal structures are major contributors of poor mental conditions among the unemployed (Edgell, 2012; p. 57). The original aim of the proposed study is to show that unemployment among women activates poor mental health conditions. It also suggests that women are highly susceptible to mental diseases and at the same time, they have better coping strategies (Romans and Seeman, 2006; p 122). I have chosen a research methodology that hopes to sample 50 women including those who have been unemployed for more than five months and those unemployed for a shorter period. I have appreciated that sampling is a robust data collection methodology thus showing the applicable sampling method. Furthermore, the chosen sample population is enough to generate comprehensive findings since the topic under investigation does not require a much larger population (Alasuutari, Bickman, and Brannen, 2009; p. 43). The study design justification I have provided points to successful and excellent methodology choices. I have briefly explained the most critical issues that would form the content of the questionnaire. This eliminates doubts about the potential questions likely to be considered during the development of the questionnaire. I contend with other research methodologies thus becoming aware of the applicable approach for the filtration process of the study population. Furthermore, I have observed the conditionality for researchers to provide reasons for focusing on a given population group while ignoring others. In this study, the women and in fact only the unemployed ones are at the core of the study. The focus to use qualitative research methods is robust considering that the proposed study shall generate minimal quantity applications (Alasuutari, Bickman, and Brannen, 2009; p. 189). I also decided on the applicable non-probability sampling technique thus minimizing chances for scrutiny of the methods. Furthermore, I have indicated that the questionnaires for the study shall reach the participants through employing the services of volunteers to assist in distribution. I have recognised that the proposed study will also benefit from secondary sources of data in the premise of the case studies (Bryman, 2012; p. 123). I recognize that ethical concerns in study processes are a delicate area that requires greater consideration. For that matter, first I recognize that this study potentially benefits from widening the study to come up with a control population (Alasuutari, Bickman, and Brannen, 2009; p. 117). The control population would include women on full term employment to help me in identifying and arguing for or against concerns that even employed women also suffer mental health challenges. However, I will capture these under the literature review to show that employed women considerably do not suffer from poor mental health. This is critical because it helps in avoiding hasty generalization that women would also suffer from poor mental health conditions even when under employment (Alasuutari, Bickman, and Brannen, 2009; p. 123). I have considered thoughts to obtain from the course coordinator a signed code of conduct applicable in the study. I also reaffirm commitment to the code of conduct and ensuring that I adhere to it throughout the study. I have indicated use of volunteers in the distribution of the questionnaires and I have to ensure that they also interact with the codes of conduct for this study. I have also considered it an a significant aspect of the study to adhere to the critical principles for the social science inquiries including participation, elimination of harm, dishonesty, secrecy, and political considerations (Bryman, 2012; p. 76). In fact, the code of conduct espouses these principles to the latter. Therefore, I have to ensure that the process for the proposed research is guided by these principles. The process of interviewing women about unemployment might affect their psychological and emotional wellbeing and adhering to the social science research principles eliminates any concerns for such challenges. I have categorically pointed out that case studies are readily available secondary sources of data. Therefore, using them would not lead to infringing on the opinion rights of their authors (Alasuutari, Bickman, and Brannen, 2009; p. 163). I undertake to reveal my non-partisanship and non-engagement in any political affiliations or opinions that might affect the study. This is because studies on unemployment would present political challenges. The project planning strategies that I have suggested are sufficient in showing excellence in data management, research schedule, and handling limitations (Deryck, 2004; p. 45). I will eliminate personal bias through deciding on a specific sampling method. I will also take caution with the use of social media in disseminating research findings through ensuring that the choice of language does not disrepute the image of my respondents. The proposed study has clearly shown that the process significantly meets scientific thresholds. The choice of the study topic is informed by the fact that for several years studies have focused on all population groups. Therefore, focusing solely on unemployed women shall enable the generation of very distinct and robust knowledge regarding the effects of unemployment on the mental health of women. The study methodology has clearly indicated that critical processes shall in the research process are scientific. The section on ethical standards considered all moral and principle concerns in social research. List of References ALASUUTARI, P, BICKMAN, L. & BRANNEN, J. (edits) (2009) The SAGE handbook of social research methods ALASUUTARI, P, BICKMAN, L. & BRANNEN, J. (edits) (2009). The SAGE handbook of social research methods London: Sage. Audit Commission. (1999). Listen Up! Effective Community Consultation. Audit Commission. (W). Audit Commission. (2000). Aiming to Improve: the principles of performance management. London: Audit Commission. (W) Audit Commission. (2002). Performance Breakthroughs: improving performance in public sector organisations. London: Audit Commission. (W) Audit Commission. (2005). Housing: improving service through resident participation (W). Useful discussion of the reasons for involving residents, and the costs and benefits of involving residents. Audit Commission. (2007). Key Line of Enquiry Resident involvement. (W) BARBOUR, R. (2008) Introducing Qualitative Research: A student guide to the craft of Doing Qualitative Research London:Sage. BECKER H.S. (1963) Outsiders: Studies in the Sociology of Deviance New York: Free Press. Bell, J., (2005) Doing your Research project: A guide for first time researchers in education, health and social science 4th ed. Maidenhead: OUP BELL, J., (2005). Doing your Research project: A guide for first time researchers in education, health and social science 4th ed. Maidenhead: OUP BERESFORD, P. (2003) Its Our Lives: A short theory of knowledge, distance and experience, Citizen Press in association with Shaping Our Lives BERKMAN, L. F., & KAWACHI, I. (2000). Social Epidemiology. New York, Oxford University Press: 135. BLACK, L. (2008). Guidelines on chairing committees. (W) BOUD, D. Keogh, R and Walker, D (1985) Reflection: Turning Experience into Learning London: Kogan Page. BRUCE P. D. (1998). Adversity, Stress, and Psychopathology Oxford University Press. BRYMAN A. (2012) Social Research Methods (4th ed) Oxford: Oxford U.P. (earlier editions of Bryman also available in library) BRYMAN, A., (2012). Social Research Methods 3rded. New York: Oxford University Press. BURGESS R. (1991) In the Field: An Introduction to Field Research London: Routledge Cabinet Office. (2004). Customer Satisfaction with Key Public Services. This short document sets out the reasons for changes with public services. (W). CAIRNCROSS L, CLAPHAM D and GOODLAD, R. (1997). Housing Management: Customers, Consumers and Citizens. London: Routledge.  363.5 CAI. Chapter two is the key section. CARR,H; SEFTON-GREEN and TISSIER, D (2001) Two steps forward for tenants? pp/157-178 In Cowan, D and Marsh, A eds. Two steps forward: Housing policy into the new millennium. Bristol: Policy Press (363.5 TWO) New Economics Foundation. 1998. Participation works! Techniques for community participation in the 21st century. London: New Economics Foundation. (W). CHAMBERS, R (1995) Paradigm shifts and the practice of participatory research and development In: Nelson, N and Wright, S (eds). Power and Participatory development: Theory and Practice. ITDG Publishing. Chartered Institute of Housing. 2010. Involving Residents in Shaping Services. Reasons for involving residents, and examples of good practice. (W). COOPER, C. (1998). Resident Involvement and Community Action. Aldershot: Arena. 363.5 HOU COPE, H. (1990). Housing associations- policy and practice. London: Macmillan. This is quite old, but it is an easy read. CORNFORTH C. (2002). The governance of public and non-profit making organisations- what do boards do? London: Routledge. E Book CRANG, M. and COOK, I (2007) Doing Ethnographies. London: Sage. D and MARSH, A eds. Two steps forward: Housing policy into the new millennium. Bristol: Policy Press (363.5 TWO). DAVIES A and WARRINGTON R. (2007). Leading the way: achieving resident-driven accountability and excellence. CIH. (W) DAVIES, A and LUPTON, M. (2010). Resident-led self regulation: enhancing in-house scrutiny and performance. Chartered Institute of Housing. (W) DERYCK B. (2004). Implementation of the Data Protection Directive In Relation To Medical Research in Europe. England: Ashgate Publishing, Ltd. EDGELL, S. (2012). The Sociology of Work: Continuity and Change in Paid and Unpaid Work. SAGE European Health Committee. (1987). Effects of Long-Term Unemployment on Health. Strasbourg, Council of Europe, Publications Section: Pg. 21. Hanley B (2005) Research as empowerment? Report of a series of seminars organised by the Toronto Group http://www.jrf.org.uk/knowledge/findings/socialcare/0175.asp. HARRIOTT S and MATTHEWS L. 2009. Introducing affordable housing. Coventry: Chartered Institute of Housing. Chapter 3. Housing Quality Network. (2005). Too see ourselves as others see us- but first. This sets out a toolkit for improving management boards. (W) HUDSON M (ed). (2009). Managing without profit: leadership, management and governance of third sector organisations. London: Directory of Social Change. 658.04 HUD CH. This is one of the clearer texts on this issue. Improvement and Development Agency. (2005). Performance Management: the people dimension. London: IdEA (W) Improvement and Development Agency. (2006). (2nd ed.). A Councillor’s guide to performance management. London; IdEA. (W) KORNSTEIN, S. G. and CLAYTON, A. H. (2004). Womens Mental Health: A Comprehensive Textbook. New York: Guilford Press. LISTER S, PERRY J and THORNLEY M. (2007). Community engagement in Housing-led Regeneration: a Good Practice Guide. Chartered Institute of Housing. 363.50941 LIS London: Sage LOWE, S. (2005). Housing policy analysis: British housing in cultural and comparative context. Basingstoke: Palgrave MacMillan. Chapter 2. LUND, B. (2011). Understanding housing policy. Bristol: Policy Press. Chapter four explains the role of different housing organisations. Matthews, B. & Ross, L. (2010) Research Methods: a practical guide for social sciences Harlow: Pearson Longman MUKHERJI,P. & ALBON, D. (2010) Research methods in early childhood : an introductory guide London: Sage MULLINS, D and MURIE, A. (2006). Housing policy in the UK. Basingstoke: MacMillan. Chapter 7. National Consumer Council (undated- probably around 2006). The Consumer Interest in Housing: Tenants, Service Users and Communities. (W). A broad discussion of tenant involvement, with an eight-point consumer health check. National Housing Federation. (2004). Competence and accountability: code of governance for members of the National Housing Federation. London: NHF. (W) NOLAN COMMITTEE. (1995). Standards in Public Life: Local Public Spending Bodies. HMSO London. (W) OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER. (2006). Developing good practice in resident participation. HMSO. (W). PLUMMER,J. (1994). The Governance Gap: Quangos and Accountability. York: Joseph Rowntree Foundation. (W) RESOURCE CENTRE. (2007). Chairing a meeting. (W) ROGERS, B and ROBINSON, E. (Undated, probably around). ( 2005). The Benefits of Community Engagement: a Review of the Evidence. Home Office (W). Discussion of community engagement in health, housing, regeneration, education and policing. ROMANS, S. E., and SEEMAN, M. V. (2006). Womens Mental Health: A Life Cycle Approach. USA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. SARGEANT J and STEELE J. 1998. Consulting the Public – Guidelines and Good Practice. Policy Studies Institute.  363 SEA TENANT SERVICES AUTHORITY. (2010). Making Voices Count: Reviewing Practice in Tenant Involvement and Empowerment (W). Key questions for landlords in empowering tenants. TENANT SERVICES AUTHORITY. 2010. Tenant Involvement: Assessing Landlords’ Progress. (W). WARR, P. B. (1987). Work, unemployment, and mental health. Clarendon Press. WHEELDON, J.(2009). What Does Excellence Look Like? Resident Involvement. Housing Quality Network. (W). This discusses how well-performing landlords involve residents in decision making. Read More

Some have also lost their property due to their financial inability to repay the loans, and relatives and friends who were borrowed money have also been up their sleeves. These are just some of the precipitating factors that lead to the development of health problems. Mental health issues arising from long-term unemployment are a serious problem that different countries face. The best way to solve it is by trying to solve the problems created by unemployment (Berkman and Kawachi, 2000: pg. 132).

The conditions created by longer periods of unemployment are so devastating because people need finances to solve many of the economic and social problems. Method During this research, a qualitative study was conducted through an interview of those who were found to have been unemployed for very long periods. A convenience sample that could represent more than 5 million unemployed was selected (Bell, 2005: 76). These were 880 unemployed recruited to investigate if indeed there was any mental health problem associated with unemployment, and to determine the adversity of such effects.

The research sample selected had an average age of 40(n=40), covering ages between 18 and 64 years. Most of them had not been employed since their 18th birthday for almost a period of four years. Others reported having lost their jobs 1-2 years and have not been able to secure other job opportunities (Beresford, 2003: pg. 123). Their levels of education ranged from 12th great to college level with the majority between 12th grade and diploma (n=600). Few of them interviewed had baccalaureate and master’s degrees (n=120) and (n=4).

It was also deemed necessary to interview psychiatrists who dealt with patients with mental problems so as to help identify if indeed among those whom they dealt with were products of long-term unemployed. 12 psychiatrists were recruited and 4 psychologists. They were interviewed to determine the nature of the patients they dealt with, if at all there were victims of long-term unemployed (Becker, 1963; p. 88). Data Collection The sample of unemployed was interviewed individually for approximately 1.

5 hours in a setting of their choice, most especially in an empty area or their most preferred joints or café. Open-ended questions were employed to stimulate the stories of the unemployed as far as longer periods of joblessness were concerned (Boud et al, 1985: pg. 123). More specific questions were also asked in order to make them give more relevant details such as (“What can you say about your situation given the fact that you have been going for months without any source of livelihood? What are some of the challenges you have experienced so far since you lost your job?

How do you cope with stress and anxiety that you experience due to joblessness?” Both the psychiatrists and psychologists were also interviewed for approximately 1 hour in their offices or any place of their choice. They were also asked open-ended questions and provided with rigid questionnaires. Questions asked included, (Among the clients of mental health have you ever experienced cases resulting from long-term employment? Is there any difference between the women situation and that of men?

What is the relationship between the mental health problems and the rate of unemployment? Most of the unemployed who were interviewed demonstrated certain distress levels. They elaborated how bad it feels to go for longer periods from the loss of the previous job without securing any employment opportunity yet (Boud et al, 1985). Most of the women cited several cases that make them stressed as a result of long-term unemployment. They constantly experienced psychological torture when they realize they cannot afford most of the things they need in their lives, when they cannot keep up with the bills, and when they are forced to sell most of their property to cater for some necessities and debts owed to both relatives and friends.

Most of the long-term unemployed cited economic factors to have direct and heavier effects on them than personal factors.

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