mental health benefits of work & study

Whether you’re struggling to get out of bed or having a tough time in other ways, we’re here for you. You don’t have to wait until you feel ‘ready’ to get involved in work or study. We can support you wherever you’re at.

Quick overview

• Work and study can support your mental health in a range of ways.
• Engaging in work or study can help build confidence, routine, skills and connection.
• Employers and education providers can make adjustments to help you participate in a way that works for you.
• Support services can help you explore options, find opportunities and stay on track.

Research shows that many young people experiencing mental health difficulties can work if they have the right support. And while returning to work and study may have its challenges, there is good evidence that it will support your mental health and wellbeing.

Download our fact sheet on the mental health benefits of work and study

(PDF 1.2 MB)

Mental health benefits of work and study

There are lots of reasons why we might stop, or find it hard to start, working or studying, like:

• feeling inexperienced or unprepared to enter the workforce, or to go to university or TAFE
• having had a negative experience in the past
• experiencing mental health difficulties or stress in your personal life
• having other responsibilities such as caring for someone else
• having a disability or physical health concerns
• being unsure of where to start or what options are available
• time away from school or limited access to career advice.

Sometimes we face tough times or things happen that impact our confidence or ability to work or study. When this happens it's easy to withdraw or get stuck in a rut that feels hard to get out of. 

But working or studying can be a really positive step for your wellbeing. It can help you feel more confident, empowered and connected. It’s about building a routine, setting yourself goals and working to achieve them.

Here are some examples of how work and study can help to build your confidence and support other areas of your life.  If you’re finding it hard to get into work or study, keepig these in mind might help you stay motivated.

What are reasonable adjustments or accommodations at work or study?

If you are having a tough time at work or study, or are living with a physical or mental health condition, workplaces and education providers can often make 'adjustments' (sometimes called accomodations)  to help you participate and do your best. These adjustments can be requested for temporary situations like injuries, illnesses, or challenging life circumstances, as well as ongoing conditions, such as disability, mental health conditions, or chronic illnesses.  

Employers and education providers have a responsibility to make reasonable adjustments, where possible, so that everyone can do their job or participate in study. This responsibility is included in the Disability Discrimination Act 1992, which means it’s required by law.

Adjustments should respond to the particular needs or concerns of the individual. Examples of adjustments could include making changes to the environment, flexible start or finish times, options to work or study from home, modifying equipment or providing extra training.

Deciding to approach your employer or study provider about reasonable adjustments can be hard, and you may feel worried about how they'll respond. You could check out this resource on managing your mental health in the workplace for some pros and cons to disclosing, and more information on employer and employee responsibilities regarding adjustments.