Do What You Need to Do With Occupational Therapy

April is a very special month. It’s National Occupational Therapy Month. You’re probably thinking, “What kind of therapy month?” Occupational therapy (OT), which aims to help people to live life to the fullest. But what exactly is it, what does it involve and how can you show your support for this noble cause?

Occupational therapists work with individuals who have physical, developmental, cognitive and social obstacles resulting from injury, illness or disability.They work hands-on with these ones to increase their independence, enhance development and prevent further disability.

Unlike physical therapists,   occupational therapists help people of all ages  from newborns to the elderly. Additionally, they render services in a variety of setting including in homes, hospitals, nursing facilities, rehabs, clinics, schools, and so on.

Depending on the person, they may focus on occupations such as proper self-care, everyday activities such as cooking, productivity at work or recreational activities. To improve a person’s ability, therapists remove any hindrances that make such tasks difficult. Such obstacles might include the environment in which the tasks are being carried out, the person’s skill level or the way the task is being done.

In any case, the ultimate goal is to improve health, giving people both the confidence and the ability to do the things that matter most to them.

Now that you know what OT is, though, where do you come into the picture?

Anyone—even you—could be injured, fall prey to a life-altering illness or develop a disability. Imagine for a second that you did develop some sort of impairment that limits your ability to do things that are currently second-nature for you.

No doubt, you’d want help to regain as much of your ability as possible. You’d also want the support of family, friends, and others as you worked hard to achieve this, right? Right!

These are exactly the things that individuals with disabilities want! And you can help them get what they need—encouragement to start OT and support as they go through it.

There are many  ways you can show your support  during National Occupational Therapy Month.

Social media is an excellent way to talk about the many benefits of such therapy. Purchasing and showing off this year’s specially-made clothing, gifts, and other items can also create additional awareness in your community. You might even throw a party or hold an event in the workplace where employees can learn more about occupational therapy and join you in supporting the cause.

There’s plenty you can do so, hopefully, you will consider celebrating OT Month. If you do, you’ll be celebrating life itself!