Occupational Therapy News June 2020 | Page 43

Therrien et al (2020) conducted a qualitative
multiple case study to describe the selfdirected
learning processes of workers
with severe mental illness (SMI), and the
support they received, to achieve workhealth
balance. Five employed adults with
SMI and six support persons participated.
Data collection involved semi-structured
interviews, observation sessions and taking
photographs of objects used by workers
to manage their symptoms. Findings
are presented in terms of: self-directed
learning patterns (preparation for learning,
post-crisis learning, active learning and
transformation of occupational identity);
self-management partnership; and workhealth
balance strategies (preparation,
reassurance, validation, assertiveness and
work-rest transitions). The authors suggest
that encouraging workers to consider
work as a self-directed learning project
may be a creative and productive way to
provide support that respects their selfdetermination.
Reference
Therrien D, Corbière M, Collette K (2020)
Workers with severe mental illness coping
with clinical symptoms: self-directed learning
of work-health balance strategies. Australian
Occupational Therapy Journal, Mar 26.
[Epub ahead of print].
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Mind (2013) We still need to talk: A report on access to talking
therapies. Available at: https://www.mind.org.uk/about-us/ourpolicy-work/reports-and-guides/talking-therapiesreports/?ctaId=/about-us/our-policy-work/reports-and-guides/
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Alana Whiting, occupational therapist,
Gedling and Hucknall Community Mental
Health Team for Older People,
email: Alana.Whiting@
nottshc.nhs.uk​
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© GettyImages/zoff-photo