Work & Study
The World Is Working for What?
Workforce participation and productivity are tied to every prevention goal, yet the costs of disengagement are staggering. Mental health conditions cost the Australian economy $43-70 billion annually in lost productivity and healthcare (Productivity Commission, 2020). Globally, workplace disengagement drains $7.8 trillion from the economy (Gallup, 2024). In Australia alone, workplace stress costs $543 million yearly in compensation claims (AON; Safe Work Australia, 2014). But these numbers only scratch the surface of what we've lost.
Despite billions invested in workplace solutions, engagement and fulfillment continue to decline. Performance metrics that reduce humans to data points. Academic systems that prioritise compliance over connection, authority over independent thinking. Gender inequalities that persist despite decades of "progress." Neurodivergent minds are forced into neurotypical boxes while their unique strengths remain invisible and undervalued.
This Is Where OTs Belong
Work and study aren't just productivity challenges or academic achievements. They are occupations - fundamental activities that shape identity, honour individual strengths, create meaningful contribution, and build human connection. Every day, people engage in occupational tasks; organising, managing time, adapting to challenges and collaborating with others. Every person brings unique ways of thinking, processing, creating, and contributing that should be celebrated, not standardised.
We understand what others miss: that the best outcomes emerge when people can contribute authentically rather than conforming to narrow definitions of "performance." Without occupation-centred perspectives, interventions address symptoms of behavioural challenges at school to stress, disengagement, burnout and employee performance metrics in the workplace - neither restoring autonomy, success, connection, sustainability or fulfilment.
What's Missing Without Us
- Ergonomics are a solution to pain, not a standard of thoughtful design
- Performance is measured but not the occupational conditions that allow people to thrive authentically
- Wellness programs treat stress but don't address root occupational mismatches
- Productivity culture ignores unique rhythms, strengths and needs
- Schools and workplaces engage in health as a last resort to severe problem
The result? People get temporary patches to stay in the system, but never develop the confidence and skills to fully recognise their own strengths to enable unique ways of contributing to greater society.
This Is Where We Are at LifeSetGo
We believe OTs can only transform work and study when we stand united with clarity about our role in creating genuinely human-centered environments. We see the complex interconnection between multiple systems. Every OT has the potential to enable success in study and work.
When we lead, we don't just help individuals perform better, we help teachers, employees, families. We transform how society creates work and learning environments that celebrate potential.
👉 Ready to feel confident? Our visibility stays clear when we have strong occupational case formulation - the foundation that keeps us focused on meaningful participation. Train with LifeSetGo.