Most experts acknowledge that an increasing number of periods of absence from work are either caused by mental health problems, or develop a psychological or mental health dimension as the absence progresses. Although it is sometimes possible to bring about a return to work after a number of years, it is generally accepted that the earlier the point of intervention, say within one and three months, the better the prognosis for an early recovery with consequent reduction in claim costs. However, psychological assessment and treatment at a later stage can make a significant positive contribution to cost effective management of the case.

Moving Minds has developed procedures to determine and monitor which cases are likely to have a positive treatment outcome. For example:

1. Work related stress is the most common cause for prolonged absence from work in many trades and professions. This kind of stress can be effectively treated. Stress management techniques can be taught to both individuals and groups.
2. Anxiety and Depression. There is a wide research base confirming that these conditions respond well to a combination of psychological treatment and medication.
3. Road traffic and other accidents can lead to disabling posttraumatic stress disorders, whiplash injuries and travel and other phobias. Research confirms that both EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy) and CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) are the treatments of choice for these disorders.
4. Intractable physical illness, such as backache and other chronic pain conditions. These are more difficult to treat but patients can benefit from pain management and learning coping strategies and life planning skills.
5. Avoidance behaviours such as a dysfunctional reluctance to return to work after illness, or attending to normal domestic routines. Psychological intervention may help break the cycle of disability and prevent permanent negative lifestyle changes such as withdrawing into the home environment.

The treatment is most successful when:

• the problem that is at the root of the absence from work is identifiable
• there are identifiable treatment targets
• the person is motivated to and positive about treatment
• the person identifies with their work role
• the person remains in contact with their workplace
• they are prepared to talk about the problem
• there is a good chance of a return to work (a different position is available or a graduated return)