OT is often administered in a group setting, and is sometimes referred to as "activity therapy". Groups usually focus on teaching patients life skills as well as coping techniques to deal with mental illness and substance abuse. The length of the groups is dependent on the attention span of the group, and how in depth the material and discussion will be. Depending on the setting, length of stay, and type of equipment available, patients may be able to participate in actual cooking tasks, where they are monitored for safety and taught important skills to use when they are discharged. Other facilities may not have access to large areas and cooking equipment, so the focus could be a discussion and handout on nutrition, cooking and/or meal preparation. Whatever the topic or group, the focus is always on helping the patients engage/participate in an activity that will challenge them, teach them skills, and help them with socialization.
Some common group topics include: nutrition, cooking, coping, relationships, sensory integration, art therapy, leisure exploration, self-awareness, substance abuse
Sensory integration is another important aspect of OT in mental health. Many settings have what is called a "sensory room", where patients can be taken for short periods of time, usually 10-15 minutes, in order to help them calm down and reorganize during stressful or anxious times. These rooms are usually quite small, and often include comfortable chairs/bean bags, fidgets, adjustable lighting, music and nature videos. Patients are brought into the sensory room for an individual intervention, in which a staff member must be present to facilitate. These rooms are best used on a regular basis (i.e. once per day), but can be used on an as needed basis as well. Staff are encouraged to take patients to the sensory room when they are first noticing increased anxiety or escalating behaviors; once the patient is in crisis mode, the sensory room is no longer appropriate. Sensory rooms can be a great intervention which can help patients learn to reduce stress and self-regulate without medication.
OT's may also lead groups on music or art therapy. Art groups challenge patients to use cognitive skills such as mental organization, sequencing, and problem solving, while creating something for themselves or someone they care about. Engaging in art activities allows patients to try new things, and discover new talents and hobbies. Music is another important coping tool that most of the patients have access to at home. It is important to discuss how to functionally use music as a tool, and allow patients to experience the healing power of music.
