[Development of the multidisciplinary guideline on 'work and severe mental illness'].

Background: In the Netherlands only a comparatively low percentage (18-19%) of persons with severe mental illness (SMI) are in paid employment. The problem consists not only of finding a job but also of holding it down.

Aim: To develop guidelines that will ensure that patients with SMI have the best possible access to paid employment and that the drop-out rate for this group is as low as possible.

Method: We reviewed the literature systematically and reviewed the results revealed by focus groups and case studies.

Results: There is strong evidence that the integrated approach 'Individual Placement and Support' is effective in keeping people in employment. There are indications that self-management strategies and programmes and assessment instruments are also effective in this regard.

Conclusion: The guidelines recommend that persons with SMI should be given continuing support so they can remain in paid employment. More research is needed into how effective self-management programmes and assessment instruments can be in keeping this group of persons in employment. Collaborations between various sectors also needs to be further investigated.