What does Occupational Therapy have to do with Mental Health?
There are times in life when it’s hard to think straight. Things don’t make sense anymore and sometimes we don’t even realise how much it’s affected us.
Our judgment can be foggy and we may behave in ways that are out of character. We can feel like strangers in our own body. Sometimes we can struggle to put one foot in front of the other and we stop carrying out the activities that are important.
The paradox of this, is that it can be these very acts of ‘doing’ that can help set us back on track.
Research has shown that participation in life’s activities is a defining factor in creating and maintaining an improved state of mental wellness.
Occupation Therapy has always been based around getting people engaged in the life they want to lead. Traditionally you may think of it as helping people rehabilitate after an accident, or sorting out the best actions and layouts for a safe and functional workspace. When it comes to people’s minds it’s no different.
In the mental health context, Occupational Therapy not only helps people unravel what’s behind mental challenges and resulting behavior, but sets about helping them to discover what’s individually important and to develop skills that help them to re-engage in meaningful activity. This understanding and encouragement towards taking practical steps helps to rebuild happy, healthy minds.
If you or your loved ones are struggling to get on top of things, and you’d like to learn more about how Occupational Therapy can support your needs and get you going again, make contact with our reception to have an OT from our service contact you.
Robbie Ellett
Mental Health Occupational Therapist
robbie@brisbaneactcentre.com.au
Phone: 1300 736 055
http://mindflip.com.au/
