Characteristics of Norwegian clubhouse members and factors associated with their participation in work and education

Abstract

Introduction: People with mental illness, in particular those with psychosis, have more problems related to getting and keeping a job than people in the general population. Clubhouses for people with mental illness are becoming increasingly common, but little is known about clubhouse members and their participation in work and education. The aim of this study was to explore these issues. Method: A member survey was conducted at one clubhouse in Oslo during February 2015. The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis. Results: Eighty-nine clubhouse members completed the survey (response rate 55.6%). More than half of the sample had a desire to work, but only 14% participated in ordinary work. Sixty-seven percent of the participants were more than 50 years old, and they were frequent users and long-time members of the clubhouse. Higher age among the participants decreased their chances for participating in work and/or education. Conclusion: The study indicates that the clubhouse is of importance to its members, and that older members who have a desire to participate in work and/or education may be particularly challenged in their work towards such goals.