6 Occupational Therapy Interventions That Can Improve Your Mental Health


 

There is not just one way to treat mental health.

If traditional talk therapy isn't working for you, here are some alternative occupational therapy interventions that can help.


What is Occupational Therapy?

    Occupational therapy by definition is a form of therapy for those recuperating from physical or mental illness that encourages rehabilitation through the performance of activities required in daily life. Occupational therapy found its origins in mental health institutions. Since then, the practice has made moves towards more physical domains, addressing motor functions and disabilities. However, in recent years, a return to mental health settings has occurred. Occupational therapy encompasses care for both the physical and mental domains of the individual.



Why Choose OT Over Traditional Talk Therapy?

  

The general public is informed about the benefits of talk therapy, medication, and relaxation techniques, yet not many know about the mental health benefits of occupational therapy. Some people may not feel comfortable with traditional talk therapy or medication for their symptoms. Occupational therapy is a great alternative form of care in these cases. Studies have shown many mental health benefits of Occupational therapy.






Mental Health Benefits of Occupational Therapy 

  • Decreased general anxiety

  • Decreased social anxiety 

  • Decreased levels of depression

  • Enhanced quality of life

  • Enhanced self esteem

  • Enhanced self efficacy

  • Enhanced occupational satisfaction



Why Does it Work?

With each study, evidence found that enhancing occupational performance or physical activity influenced an increase in self-esteem and self-efficacy. With this increased self-esteem, perceptions of quality of life increased. Higher quality of life and self-efficacy positively impacts mental illnesses by lessening symptoms.

In other words, being able to do something physically increased self efficacy, which in turn increased self esteem, causing an increase in quality of life. Higher quality of life has been shown to reduce symptoms associated with anxiety and mood disorders. So moving, creating, and achieving personal goals all aid in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

    



Occupational Therapy Intervention Options for Practical Applications


  1. Traditional Occupational Therapy 

Traditional occupational therapy focuses on activities of daily living, social skills, job

assistance, and working on the individual’s goals.


  1. Tree Theme Method

The Tree Theme Method uses art therapy and life story telling like occupational

storytelling as an intervention for anxiety and depressive symptoms.


  1. Balancing Everyday Life (BEL) Program

BEL programs focus on activity balance, engagement, motivation, healthy living, and

relaxation.


  1. Hippotherapy

Hippotherapy is therapy with a horse to promote motor development and improvement

of mental health symptoms. Hippotherapy is effective in treating anxiety disorders,

especially PTSD.


  1. Play Based Therapy

Usually administered to children, play based therapy uses a child’s play interests to

    incorporate cognitive, emotional, and physical skills that the child or parent wants to

    improve on.


  1. Telehealth 

Telehealth is virtually health over video chat or phone call. Telehealth is becoming

increasing popular and is an effective way to maintain treatment and preventing

relapse.


 Practical Applications

    The general public is informed about the benefits of talk therapy, medication, and relaxation techniques, yet not many know about the mental health benefits of occupational therapy.

    Those suffering from these challenges need to know that there are occupational therapy interventions that not only assist their mental health, but also aid them in gaining independence in their everyday tasks; tasks that otherwise may seem unachievable due to these disorders. These different interventions allow care to be catered to your individual needs and allow those who might not otherwise seek care, to receive effective treatments.


Resourceful Links 

https://www.aota.org/About-Occupational-Therapy/Professionals/MH/mental-health-recovery.aspx


https://www.whisperinghorse.net/


https://www.aota.org/Practice/Manage/telehealth.aspx


https://www.mentalhealth.gov/get-help/immediate-help



About the Author



Danielle Collins is a senior at Westfield State University. She is currently double majoring in both Movement Science with a concentration in sports medicine and Psychology. After graduating, her plan is to go on to graduate school and pursue a career in occupational therapy. Danielle can be contacted at danimarie2k@gmail.com.


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