Our meta-analysis, the first on this topic, and our study using Canadian population-level data provided much-needed evidence for the existence and amplitude of significant associations between mental illness and substance use problems and being NEET (not in education, employment, or training). The meta-analysis also found that while mental health and substance use problems predicted being NEET later, evidence for the inverse relationship was sparse.
We are conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis on the effectiveness of employment and education interventions for young people with mental health problems. This is the first meta-analysis on this topic as previous ones have either focused on specific populations (e.g., psychosis) or specific interventions (e.g., individual placement and support). Our meta-analysis focuses on a broad range of interventions and youth presenting with a range of mental health problems in terms of type and severity. We are synthesizing what outcomes have thus far been focused in evaluations, to highlight gaps (e.g., few studies have assessed youth satisfaction with their employment).

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