Contribution of an individualized occupation-centered program incorporating a self-monitoring perspective to the acquisition of new hobbies and improved mental health: A case study

Abstract

The client (hereafter referred to as “CL”) suffered from rarefied thoughts of death as a result of chronic depressive symptoms, and presented with acute psychiatric and behavioral disorders due to sedative medications. Occupational therapy focused on the task of “making things,” which was identified in the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), and was reflected on using an Activity Diary. A Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) was also developed to facilitate recovery. As a result, CL acquired new hobbies such as leatherworking and cross-stitching, and by reflecting the acquired occupation in WRAP, CL became more proactive in her recovery efforts. This suggests that an occupation-centered intervention, incorporating the Activity Diary and the WRAP perspective, can enhance the effects of meaningful occupation on CL's mental health and help them to enrich their lives.