LBAC: (Jobseekerss)
Local Business Advisory Council

The Local Business Advisory Council is a MHAST initiative designed to connect jobseekers with employment that is appropriate for their skills, abilities, and ambitions.

Overview of the LBAC
The MHAST’s Local Business Advisory Council (LBAC) is a MHANYS-funded Consumer and Business Outreach Program. Members include employers, diversity and disability experts, and jobseekers interested in improving the mental health and overall wellness of the local workforce. All agree that employee diversity is an asset and that understanding is essential to building strong and respectful workplace relationships. The LBAC gives employers access to motivated jobseekers who are prepared for dedicated service to health-conscious companies.

The Benefits of Employment

Individuals with mental illness should consider working or volunteering as part of their recovery process because of the potential benefits:

Social Benefits of Working/Volunteering:

• Allows one to regain or retain interpersonal communication skills
• Provides an additional social outlet, which decreases isolation
• Coworkers can offer additional support

Cognitive Benefits of Working/Volunteering

A diverse workforce is able to respond to challenges by drawing on the various strengths of its members. Unique employee viewpoints maximize an organization’s problem solving resources, which can ultimately lead to increased profits. Individuals with disabilities are often praised for their creativity, resourcefulness, and dedication.

• Distracts the mind from unhealthy or unwanted thoughts
• Increases feelings of self worth and self esteem
• Improves memory and focusing abilities
• Enhances time management skills
• Allows for symptom control
  

Financial Benefits of Working

• Increased financial independence
• Improved quality of life
  

Mental Health and Employment

Job situations can often be frustrating. Seeking assistance with workplace issues from mental health professionals, trusted peers, and occupational superiors is not a sign of weakness or an inability to cope with job demands. Instead, these actions are proven ways to defuse workplace tensions before they become too serious. LBAC members recognize that preventive measures, ongoing mental health maintenance practices, and early intervention strategies are essential to mental wellness and resiliency in the workplace.

Working Toward Employment

1. Evaluate interests, abilities, and goals. Be realistic. If working is not feasible, consider volunteering.
2. Learn how to manage government benefits while working. LBAC members are available as educational resources.
3. Maintain relationships with mental health support services after becoming employed. Do not hesitate to ask for assistance if it is needed.
　

If you are ready to work or volunteer, need help starting the employment process, or want support or advice, contact the MHAST at (607) 771 8888.

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