A day in the life of a mental health occupational therapist
What does a typical day look like for Sonia Smith, an occupational therapist working in mental health?
10:00: Arrive at work. Whilst waiting for the computer to warm up I have my ‘football hat’ on, so launder the bibs, wash the cups, and pack the bag for the day. I respond to emails – often referral forms require further information, so today I called a nurse on the acute inpatient ward to ask for more information about a referral. Some of our service users require supporting letters, this could be for benefit applications, PIP applications, DWP medical reviews, etc. Or regarding their application for work, education or training schemes.
12:00: Sent a text to our targeted service users to remind them that the Smoking Cessation Workshop is starting shortly.
12:30: Time for lunch!
13:15: Smoking cessation delivered by the NELFT Smoking cessation service - Session begins with an interactive myth-busting quiz. Groups are shown photographs of the physical damage caused by smoking which makes the consequences more real and immediate. The group was surprised to hear how quickly a person experienced health benefits once they stopped smoking. The addictive nature of smoking is explored in conjunction with how pharmacotherapies (e.g. nicotine, gum, and patches) could ease cravings. This session has enabled us to encourage group members to engage with services to obtain support to give up smoking.
14:00: Adult session – Some of the players are feeling frustrated with their team’s performance. I suggest a quick ‘’team talk’ at half- time to discuss how better to encourage each other in a positive manner. One of the service users made some concrete positive suggestions e.g. decide on who is playing which position and what each person needs to do more. I informed the group about the hotly anticipated yearly match on Leyton Orient FC pitch.
16:00: Youth session - Session preparation with the coach, where we discussed the need to address the division between existing members and new group members. Established plan to support improved group cohesion; the coach will organise football drills/exercises and pair up new and old members together to facilitate communication. During the session I was able to speak to the mother of one of the young people attending. The mother was seeking advice and support, her son is struggling to attend school because of anxiety.
5:30: I return to base to complete electronic notes on the RIO system for each service user.