Business and Leadership A Theoretical Model for Understanding Mental Health, Substance Use, and Work Performance Among Asian Immigrants
AAOHN Journal Vol. 57   No. 10   October 2009
Jenny Hsin-Chun Tsai, PhD, ARNP, PMHCNS-BC and Mary K. Salazar, EdD, RN, COHN-S, FAAN, FAAOHN
ABSTRACT Mental illness and substance use disorders are prevalent among workers. Each year businesses lose billions of dollars to decreased work performance associated with these issues. This article discusses a theoretical model that depicts relationships between social discrimination, job concerns, and social support and workers’ mental health problems and substance use and work performance. The focus is Asian immigrant workers, a population underrepresented in the literature. This model serves to assist occupational health nurses in the practice and research arenas better understand the complexities of mental health problems and substance use among Asian immigrant workers. Occupational health nurses are in a prime position to recognize, identify, and respond to at-risk workers. Examples of areas that might be considered by occupational health nurses when using this model are included. ABOUT THE AUTHORS Dr. Tsai is Assistant Professor and Dr. Salazar is Professor Emeritus, Department of Psychosocial and Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. The authors disclose that they have no significant financial interests in any product or class of products discussed directly or indirectly in this activity. Dr. Strasser is President, Partners in Business Health Solutions, Inc., Toledo, OH; and Adjunct Assistant Professor, University of Michigan, School of Nursing, Occupational Health Nursing Program, Ann Arbor, MI. doi:10.3928/08910162-20090916-03