Testing an Occupational Therapy Intervention for People with a Personality or Mood disorder

Background: Evaluation of clinical effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions for people with mental health problems has been identified as a priority for the profession by commissioners, clinicians and managers... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
Evaluation of clinical effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions for people with mental health problems has been identified as a priority for the profession by commissioners, clinicians and managers (Smyth, 2014; COT, 2006; Morley & Smyth, 2013). Little evidence exists regarding the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions for people with a diagnosed personality or mood disorder following discharge from hospital. An evidence-based occupational therapy intervention called “Graduating Living skills Outside the Ward” was developed for people with psychosis and was tested with people with a diagnosed personality or mood disorder following discharge from hospital. The intervention aims to increase occupational performance of self-care and leisure and has potential to reduce reliance on mental health services and reduce crisis service use.
Method:
A pre-test post-test design was used to evaluate the effects of the intervention. Change in use of time, social functioning, quality of life and use of crisis services and their associated costs were measured before and after the intervention and four months following the intervention.
Results:
Twenty two participants took part in the study and the results showed a statistically significant increase in time use and social functioning at the end of the intervention for the participants. The participants used less crisis services at the end of the intervention and at follow up. Cost analysis showed that savings were made following use of GLOW.
Conclusion:
GLOW shows promise of being clinically and cost effective.
Application to practice:
Occupational therapists in the study found GLOW suitable for clinical practice.