The Relationship Between Occupational Therapy and Mental Health

Occupational therapy (OT) is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on enabling individuals to participate in the activities of daily life. This medical field was founded in mental health and continues to provide holistic services to promote independence and freedom among those with physical disabilities or mental disorders. 

This article explores the crucial relationship between occupational therapy and mental health, examining how OT can assist patients with mental health issues, the benefits of occupational therapy, and the growing need for more occupational therapists. 

The History of Occupational Therapy

The history of occupational therapy is deeply rooted in human rights movements and the evolving understanding of mental health treatment. In the 18th century, those suffering from mental illnesses were often confined to prisons and viewed as societal threats. However, as moral treatment gained traction, more humane approaches emerged, including the establishment of asylums where patients could engage in meaningful daily activities. This shift led to a growing recognition of the therapeutic value of occupational engagement, with early forms of what would later be known as occupational therapy focusing on arts, crafts, and activities of daily living (ADLs) as tools for healing and rehabilitation.

A major turning point came in the early 20th century, with two key figures shaping the field. William Rush Dunton Jr., often called the “father of occupational therapy,” and Eleanor Clarke Slagle, known as the “mother of occupational therapy,” along with others came together to found what is now the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).

On March 15, 1917, the founding meeting of the National Society for the Promotion of Occupational Therapy (NSPOT) took place at Consolation House in Clifton Springs, New York. These efforts helped formalize occupational therapy as a legitimate medical field, allowing it to grow into a recognized discipline focused on helping individuals improve their quality of life through purposeful activity.

The Connection Between Occupational Therapy and Mental Health

Occupational therapy addresses mental health by helping individuals develop, recover, or maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. A mental health occupational therapist works with people of all ages who are experiencing emotional, cognitive, or developmental mental health challenges that interfere with their ability to perform everyday activities. Occupational therapists are some of the many behavioral health professionals who work with individuals in the realm of mental health. 

Addressing Mental Illness Concerns

Occupational therapy interventions in mental health can encompass a wide range of activities, including:

1. Activity Engagement: Engaging in meaningful activities can be therapeutic. OTs use activities such as arts and crafts, cooking, gardening, and exercise to promote mental well-being and provide a sense of accomplishment and purpose.
2. Assessment and Planning: Occupational therapy practitioners assess the individual’s strengths, challenges, and goals. They then develop personalized intervention plans aimed at improving functional abilities.
3. Environmental Modifications: Adjusting the home, school, or work environment to better support the individual’s needs can significantly impact mental health. This may involve organizing spaces, reducing sensory overload, or providing adaptive equipment.
4. Psychoeducation: Educating individuals and their families about mental health conditions, treatment options, and self-management strategies is a vital part of OT in mental health.
5. Skill Development: OTs help patients develop coping strategies, social skills, time management, and self-care techniques. These skills are essential for managing mental health conditions and improving overall quality of life.

Why OT is Important to the Mental Health Space

The demand for mental health services is growing, and there is a pressing need for more occupational therapists to fill this need. Here are several reasons why more OTs, including those with pursuing doctorate degrees, should consider focusing on mental health needs:

Growing Mental Health Crisis

Mental health disorders are on the rise globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and mental health conditions are a significant contributor to the global burden of disease. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated mental health issues, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive mental health services.

Holistic Approach

Occupational therapy’s holistic approach aligns perfectly with the needs of individuals with mental health conditions. By addressing physical, emotional, and social aspects of health, OTs can provide more comprehensive care than many other healthcare professionals. This approach is particularly effective in mental health, where the interplay between physical and mental well-being is critical.

Bridging Gaps in Mental Health Care

There is a shortage of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and occupational therapists. Those studying occupational therapy can help bridge this gap by providing essential services that serve those with mental health disorders. OTs are trained to work in interdisciplinary teams, making them valuable assets in many healthcare settings.

Enhancing Quality of Life

OTs focus on improving the quality of life by enabling individuals to engage in meaningful activities. This is particularly important in mental health, where participation in daily activities can significantly impact an individual’s sense of well-being and recovery. By helping individuals achieve their goals and enhance their daily functioning, OTs play a crucial role in promoting mental health recovery and the development of coping skills.

Advancing the Profession

Specializing in mental health allows OTs to advance their profession and contribute to the growing body of knowledge in this field. Research in OT and mental health can lead to the development of more evidence-based interventions, improved treatment outcomes, and increased recognition of OT’s role in mental health care. Doctorate holders, in particular, can lead research initiatives and contribute to evidence-based practices that shape the future of OT in mental health.

The Path to Specialization in Mental Health OT

For occupational therapists interested in specializing in mental health, there are several steps to consider:

Education and Training

A bachelor’s degree in the health sciences such as biology, sociology, education, psychology, kinesiology, or exercise science is the first step. This provides a base-level education needed to pursue a degree in OT. Next, you’ll need to pursue an entry-level occupational therapy degree, either a master’s or doctorate to gain in-depth knowledge and specialized training in OT. Doctorate programs, such as a post-professional doctor of occupational therapy (DrOT), offer advanced clinical training, research opportunities, leadership development, and other benefits.

Clinical Experience

Gaining practical experience in mental health settings is crucial. This can include internships, residencies, or working in clinics, hospitals, schools, or community mental health centers. Hands-on experience allows OTs to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios and develop essential clinical skills.

Continuing Education

Continuing education is vital for staying current with the latest research, interventions, and best practices in mental health OT. Attending workshops and conferences such as the American Occupational Therapy Association’s (AOTA) Mental Health specialty conference, and pursuing additional certifications can help OTs maintain their expertise and provide the highest quality care.

Advocacy and Collaboration

Advocating for the role of OT in mental health and collaborating with other healthcare professionals can help elevate the profession and expand opportunities for OTs in this field. Building strong interdisciplinary relationships ensures comprehensive care for individuals with mental health conditions.

Earn a DrOT Online from Valparaiso University

The relationship between occupational therapy and mental health is profound and multifaceted. OTs play a crucial role in supporting individuals with behavioral health concerns by providing holistic, person-centered care that addresses the physical, emotional, and social aspects of health. The growing mental health crisis underscores the need for more OTs to specialize in this field, including those with advanced degrees who can lead research and innovation.

Valparaiso University offers a post-professional doctor of occupational therapy (DrOT) program for OTs with at least one year of professional experience. Our fully online DrOT program is structured to be completed more quickly than traditional doctoral programs. This accelerated format enables students to obtain their degrees faster, potentially lowering the time and financial investment needed to reach their academic and career objectives. Make a difference in patients’ mental health by expanding your knowledge and earning a DrOT from Valpo. Apply now or book a call with a graduate admission counselor.