The Pros And Cons Of Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy’s roots can be traced back to the military in the early 20th century. Over the past nearly hundred years, occupational therapy has adapted in response to the changing needs of service members. Nowadays, military personnel are returning home from combat with various impairments and disabilities. Many veterans continue to face traumatic brain injury, and mental health comorbidities such as post-traumatic stress disorder are common. Furthermore, symptoms of traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder may overlap.

As veterans with these conditions begin to transition back to civilian life, they must learn how to reintegrate into society. They may experience difficulty readjusting to life at home, school, work, …show more content…
Those suffering may feel too ashamed to reach out for help or they may not understand the symptoms they are experiencing. In these cases, mental illness may be left untreated and result in a worsening of symptoms. Instead of seeking help, those afflicted might turn to alcohol or drugs for relief, potentially leading to substance abuse. Even more troubling is the high suicide rate among military veterans, which could be partially attributed to not seeking treatment when it is …show more content…
I was fortunate enough to observe at Trinitas Medical Center, where I saw patients benefit from services across occupational therapy’s continuum of care. A veteran who has sustained a moderate or severe traumatic brain injury and developed post-traumatic stress disorder might undergo such a process. For example, after becoming medically stable at an acute care hospital, occupational therapy might include orienting, positioning, increasing responsiveness, following simple commands, and head control. Occupational therapists might also do passive stretching and use towel rolls to prevent contractures. Alternatively, if the patient is alert and oriented with intact cognitive skills but has poor trunk control, he/she might not be able to stand, let alone work on toileting and bathing. Upon discharge, the patient might transition to an acute rehabilitation facility, where more rigorous occupational therapy will address bed mobility and transfers, and help him/her develop the skills needed for basic self-care. As the patient continues to progress, he/she might choose to continue with outpatient services, as I observed at Trinitas. There, occupational therapy will work on more advanced functional activities and more closely address effects of the post-traumatic stress disorder. Occupational therapy may help the patient manage negative emotions; cope with stress; plan daily routines;