Song is frightened.
My name is Song. I experienced my first episode of psychosis when I was in my first year of university. I started to hear voices and was worried that my professors were conspiring against me. These voices began as a whisper but grew louder, arguing, and eventually assuming some control over who I was as a person; I felt like a bystander to my own life. I didn’t tell my friends or family that something was wrong because it all seemed so real to me at the time. I became very quiet, confused and withdrawn. I was so frightened.
Song needs an OT.
MENTAL HEALTH problems can affect people of all ages, cultures, education, and income levels. Mental illness varies from person to person and can include depression, anxiety, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress and personality disorders. Mental illness is a leading cause of disability in Canada. In any given year, 1 in 5 Canadians experiences a mental illness or addiction problem.
The occupational therapist helped Song to:
Gain referrals to other appropriate health professionals, such as psychiatrists and social workers, to provide a team approach to the most effective treatment plan and understand the importance of attending all her treatment appointments.
Learn about psychosis and introduce her family to the diagnosis. Encourage a guided family discussion where Song describes her psychotic episodes to her family and they ask questions and share their thoughts about it.
Find group therapy. Learn problem-solving, reduce social isolation and build healthy relationships. Identify what mental health support services and resources are available on campus, to develop connections and increase Song’s confidence.
Develop various coping strategies. Improve concentration and attention span by using a timer to remind Song to take a break from study time. Play calming music as a background when studying. Establish priorities that contribute to positive mental health and well-being, like connecting with at least one friend each day. Identify any triggers to the voices, like being alone in the dark, and employ measures to reduce exposure to the trigger, such as having a night light. Learn breathing exercises and mindfulness to help relaxation.
Understand that she has a bright future. Identify and talk through Song’s skills, interests, values and strengths to help her build the resilience she needs to cope with any future episodes.
Because of occupational therapy, I am graduating from university.
The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) provides a searchable national directory of occupational therapists for all Canadians to find the occupational therapy services they need.
Occupational therapy. Making the everyday possible.