When is Returning to Work Right for You?

By Jennifer Kimble, MS, CRC, Director, MaineHealth Vocational Services

It is generally accepted that work contributes positively to one’s well-being provided that the work environment is both psychologically and physically safe. Studies show there is a strong link between the benefits of work and improved mental health.

Making the decision to continue working or go back to work while navigating cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship is a personal decision that depends on your unique set of circumstances. MaineHealth Vocational Services has a long history of working with individuals with diagnoses and disabilities of all kinds as they navigate employment in the context of their medical challenges; the considerations below may help you to determine what is the best decision for you…

Benefits of working:

 Stability and normalcy during times of uncertainty.

 A means of financial security.

 Access to employee-based healthcare.

 A sense of purpose, well-being, and belonging.

 Community and social connections.

Returning to your previous job?

• Do you want to return to your prior career, or may it be time to consider a career pivot better suited to your current situation?

• Is there a possibility of remote or a flexible or reduced schedule?

• What reasonable accommodations could help to maintain work?

• If you have disability benefits, how will a return to work affect these benefits?

What if I’m not yet ready to return?

If you’re not ready to return to work just yet, you can still take steps to stay mentally engaged and prepare for future opportunities. Consider taking advantage of free online courses or affordable training programs to refresh your skills. Local adult education programs, community colleges, and university-led online courses are great resources to keep learning. Whether you choose to return to work or not, your decision should support your individual and personal well-being, health, and future aspirations!

Did you know?

Maine is currently experiencing a workforce shortage, which may make employers more open to considering candidates with part-time work capacity, flexible scheduling needs, gaps in employment history, or those with transferable skills that may not directly align with your prior work experience. If you are receiving Social Security disability benefits and feel like it may be time to try working again, there are special work rules that allow you to try working while maintaining benefit eligibility! MaineHealth Vocational Services can help you to understand these rules and may also be able to support you on the pathway back to work! For more information, email us at EmploymentNetwork@mainehealth.org.

Stay tuned for our next publication, we’ll dive deeper into how working while receiving Social Security Benefits can work to your advantage!