1 Patterns of Employment in Puerto Rico: Implications for Placement of Graduates with Mental Health Needs Coloma Rios, MA Region 1 Mental Health Consultant Puerto Rico Centers Region 1 Health and Wellness Conference May 14, 2004

2 Scope of the Problem Estimated population in Puerto Rico – 3.8 million (2000 U.S. Census Bureau) Over one-half (54%) of the population is under 35 years old Persons between the ages of comprise 16% of the Puerto Rico population (similar to the ages of our Job Corps students) The current unemployment rate in Puerto Rico is over 14%

3 Implications for Job Corps With the young population and high unemployment rate that Puerto Rico faces, job seekers with mental health needs may have greater difficulty finding a job What can we do in Job Corps to help students with mental health needs to gain and retain employment?

4 Strategies Early awareness and identification by the CMHC and health team of the specific mental health-related needs of students Develop strategies to meet the specific mental health needs of students in all phases of CDSS In coordination with counselors, the CMHC can develop individualized plans for students that encompasses all 3 phases of CDSS (from CPP through CDP through CTP)

5 Strategies (continued) Some topics that can be included in the various phases of CDSS are: Medication management and work Anger management Early recognition of depression How to deal with manic behavior Teach students with mental health needs how to plan their time so that ongoing medical appointments may be managed while holding a job

6 Strategies (continued) Link students with existing community mental health services (e.g., Puerto Rico Department of Labor Social Services for Mental Health, Vocational Rehabilitation Services) so that they will know how to reach out for continued help after Job Corps If students opt for an “export job”, help them during CPP and CTP to become familiar with mental health services in the state in which they will be relocated