What is Occupational Therapy for Mental Health Disorders?
When children and youth face a mental health challenge, early identification and intervention is crucial and can lead to improved achievement in school and better health outcomes in life.
Expanding Horizons OT uses a hands-on approach to teach children and youth skills and tools to help them build resilience and better cope and thrive in their ever changing lives. An occupational therapist collaborates with the client to assist them in developing effective strategies to successfully function with their mental illness.
Signs of Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety can present in many different ways. Some of the signs and symptoms can include:
“My stomach hurts”
Avoidance behaviours
Increased heart rate
Leaving a worksheet blank despite knowing the answers
Poor sleep hygiene
Nail biting, skin picking, lip biting
Headaches
Restlessness
Tight muscles
Crying
Quick or shallow breathing
Racing thoughts
Difficulty concentrating
Increased perspiration
Clenched fists
How can OT promote positive mental health?
The rise in mental health awareness over the last several years has highlighted the importance of the role that an occupational therapist plays in promoting positive mental health. An occupational therapist collaborates in a hands-on approach to develop effective strategies that build resilience and allow children and youth to participate in their activities of daily living.
Among the ways that an occupational therapist can promote positive mental health is by helping their clients with:
Stress and anxiety management
Goal planning
Job skills
Productivity
Financial planning & learning how to budget
Increasing self-esteem and confidence
Social skills
Coping and self-regulation skills
Conflict resolution
Daily routine, structure and planning
Exploring and participating in leisure activities
The importance of occupational balance
Understanding and managing medication
Personal hygiene
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