I have been working at Cygnet Hospital Woking for 18 months in two female acute wards. My role includes assessing patients’ occupational therapy needs, providing group and 1:1 interventions to enable their engagement in meaningful occupations, and, contributing to discharge planning.
OT Interventions can be classified into 3 main groups:
- self-care (such as sensory needs)
- productivity (such as cooking/baking)
- leisure (such as identifying interests and building routine)
In psychiatric inpatient settings, there can be many barriers that prevent patients from engaging in their meaningful and purposeful occupations. Therefore, working as an occupational therapist to support and enable patients to engage in their meaningful occupations is very rewarding and is something that I genuinely enjoy.
‘Occupational therapy is not only about rehabilitation but also prevention’
Occupational Therapists work closely with individuals to identify potential risks, modify the environment, and introduce strategies that promote wellness and prevent future relapses.
As an example, in Oaktree Ward at Cygnet Hospital Woking, a low stimulus room has been set up by occupational therapists. Various sensory strategies and modulations involving the senses (sight, sound, touch and vestibular) have been put in place.
Meanwhile, I’m currently facilitating sensory groups on 2 female acute wards too; Kahlo and Picasso Wards, in Cygnet Hospital Woking.
The sessions include an introduction to the sensory ladder, exposure to various kinds of sensory stimulation, and a discussion of how patients can utilise different sensory strategies to regulate their level of alertness. I also support patients in completing their sensory safety plan, which helps patients identify ways for them to calm emotions and manage stressful situations by increasing their understanding of their early warning signs and triggers of stress, and their sensory preferences on sensory-based activities which they find helpful.
‘Sensory strategies have been shown to alter levels of alertness and relieve anxiety and distress by prompting individuals’ ability to regulate their emotions in healthy and adaptive ways.’ [1]
The input from occupational therapy can also have a positive impact on an individual’s quality of life. A former patient who was admitted to Picasso Ward in Cygnet Hospital Woking presented as depressed, lack of motivation, lack of routine, and loss of enjoyment, then engaged with Occupational Therapy during her admission. She was supported with engaging in weekly cooking sessions, which eventually developed a routine and regained her enjoyment of cooking. Her sleep quality has also improved by engaging in the 1:1 sessions and developing a healthy routine.
This week, [Occupational Therapy Week (4-10 Nov)] the health and social care community celebrates Occupational Therapy Week, as a time dedicated to recognising the vital role of occupational therapists and the profound impact we have on individuals’ lives. This annual observance serves as a reminder of the transformative power of occupational therapy in empowering people to lead fulfilling, independent lives despite physical, mental, or developmental challenges.
Occupational therapy is a holistic profession that focuses on enabling individuals to engage in meaningful activities and occupations that enhance their well-being and promote independence. Whether it’s supporting individuals with mental health conditions in managing daily tasks, assisting children with developmental disabilities in achieving their developmental milestones, or helping a stroke survivor regain motor skills, occupational therapists employ a patient-centered approach to address a wide range of challenges.
Occupational therapy in mental health
Occupational therapy aims to improve the health and well-being of individuals through enabling engagement in occupations. Occupational therapists recognise that engagement in meaningful and purposeful occupations promotes better mental health, assists recovery, and supports individuals achieve personalised goals such as being able to take care of themselves, engaging in vocational and leisure activities, and engaging within the community.
Occupational therapists employ evidence-based techniques and tailor interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring our treatment plans are meaningful, purposeful, and aligned with their goals. With our extensive knowledge and skills, we also address barriers to occupational engagement and support individuals overcome the barriers that hinder their ability to engage fully in meaningful and purposeful occupations.
As we celebrate Occupational Therapy Week, let us recognise and express gratitude to the dedicated occupational therapists who transform lives every day through their expertise and compassionate care. Their unwavering commitment to promoting independence, improving quality of life, and empowering individuals to overcome challenges exemplifies the spirit of occupational therapy and its profound impact on society.
This week, let us come together to honour the remarkable achievements of occupational therapists and support their continued efforts to make a positive difference in the lives of countless individuals.
We’re so grateful to Christy for giving us such a personal insight into her role and the value OTs bring to Cygnet. Thanks Christy we really appreciate it!
