dx |
challenges |
examples |
GAD |
will be unable to balance their fear and anxiety with health reality based thinking and often feel a higher level of fear than the situation dictates |
An OT should be on the lookout for increased symptoms of an anxiety disorder and take the necessary steps to provide support. |
boarderline personality disorder |
unstable and standard tx often requires hospitalization |
The OT should make all attempts to help the patient to feel connected and included. Patients with BPD suffer from feelings of abandonment and isolation so any changes in care or setting may be unsettling. Moods can change quickly so be alert and know the signs and symptoms. |
dementia |
combination of memory loss with other mood and behavior changes that can signal the onset of dementia |
A caring, supportive, hopeful approach is key. This support may need to extend to other caregivers and family members as well. Patience is an important skill to develop when working with dementia patients. |
depression - mood disorder |
Depression is pervasive and can be very subtle. There can be a fine line between normal sadness and depression. |
depression can have direct and serious impacts on a patient’s health. Beyond the obvious risk of suicide, depression can also lead to weight-loss or gain, malnutrition, gastrointestinal issue, and an overall decline in physical strength. Be alert for signs and symptoms of depression and do not be afraid to address these symptoms quickly. |
eating disorders |
The first concern for a patient with an eating disorder will be addressing their physical health. Many times the compulsive activities associated with these disorders lead to extreme malnutrition, dehydration and chemical imbalances. These medical concerns will need to be addressed quickly, sometimes even before treatment for the eating disorder begins. |
A patient may develop an eating disorder as a way to control their environment or a way to punish themselves for something they feel they did wrong. Patience and empathy are crucial for OTs working with such patients. |
mania - mood disorder |
can be a symptom of several other mental illnesses, including Manic Depressive Disorder, Bipolar, and several medical conditions. The person experiencing a manic episode may say that they feel great, but they need to be watched very closely for the quick turn from manic to depressed. |
OTs need to be alert for risky behaviors and restlessness that can signal a manic episode. |
OCD - anxiety disorder |
Patients with true OCD live in a world where every action they take has deep meaning and they can be extremely fearful, angry, and depressed |
OCD behaviors often begin slowly and with something minor, like needing to have food cooked a certain way, or having to clean the kitchen in a certain way every night. But if this develops unchecked it can consume the patient very quickly and have huge consequences for their mental health. |
ptsd - anxiety disorder |
symptoms of PTSD are triggered when a situation or event reminds the person of the trauma they experienced. These triggers can be hard to predict. Sometimes even the littlest thing can trigger a major and explosive reaction. |
first goal of an OT should be to determine how much the PTSD has impacted the patient’s performance and work to discover the specific triggers for the patient. Triggers should be understood and addressed while providing training to the patient and their caregivers to avoid triggers and create healthy routines. |
schizophrenia |
These patients can be extremely volatile, unstable and sometimes dangerous. |
OTs should focus on quality of life. Some symptoms of this disorder may be reduced through psychoeducation and training in self-care and social interactions. |
substance abuse |
Alcohol, drugs and even cigarettes can interact with prescribed medication in dangerous ways |
OT will need to support and educate both the patient and the caregiver in order for a positive outcome to be maintained. |
