Positivum™

Assessing and addressing beliefs and perceptions about health and work

Our experience and research literature indicates that it is often not the initial injury or condition that precludes an individual from successfully sustaining or returning to employment, but rather their beliefs and perceptions in relation to their health, ability and work.

To address this, we partnered with Monash University (Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science and Injury Research Institute), to develop the Positivum™ assessment tool and health coaching program.

Positivum™ assessment

Positivum™ is an evidence-based biopsychosocial assessment. It contains 15 questions focused on beliefs and perceptions in relation to health and work, as well as expectations regarding recovery and return to work. It also includes a number of questions from highly valid assessments widely used in recovery and health internationally.

The assessment findings provide a useful snapshot of potential barriers to health and working, as well as areas that may be useful enablers to work potential.

Positivum™ health coaching

After the Positivum™ assessment, an individually tailored health coaching program focuses on addressing areas that are likely to be barriers to optimal health and remaining at, returning to, or finding work. Evidence based and with a strong emphasis on self-management, the coaching topics can include:

Beliefs and perceptions
Values and goal setting
The health benefits of working
Living with a health condition, including managing pain, pacing techniques, improving sleep, building resilience and managing stress

Positivum™ – a guide forward after cancer

Every year in Australia, 140,000 people are diagnosed with cancer. Of these, 40% are of working age. Cancer survivors may be managing symptoms related to treatment while also experiencing challenges such as the need for modified hours or duties, and potentially a change in employer. Add to that the profound effect of cancer on a person’s outlook, and the result is that people with cancer are at greater risk of unemployment than the general population.

In recognition of this complexity, the Positivum™ assessment and health coaching program has been adapted specifically for cancer survivors. Positivum™ – a guide forward after cancer, addresses concerns faced by cancer survivors, particularly those impacting recovery and work. The program includes reflection on values and goals, along with education and activities to empower individuals with a greater understanding of the effects of cancer. It helps them improve their daily functioning and become more resilient when moving forward with life after cancer.

Positivum: guide forward after cancer book

Positivum™ – a guide forward after trauma

Across their lifetime, approximately 60% of Australians will be exposed to a potentially traumatic event, and of this group, around 20% will develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). People who have been exposed to trauma can find remaining at or returning to work difficult.

With the input of Phoenix Australia – Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, the Positivum™ assessment and health coaching program has been adapted to support people exposed to trauma. Positivum™ – a guide forward after trauma, aims to educate and improve an individual’s understanding of trauma and post-trauma reactions. Through education and positive coping strategies, it empowers and motivates the individual to improve their function and ability to remain in, or return to, productive work.

Positivum: guide forward after trauma book