Lifeworks Occupational Therapy Blog

Written by Marli Groenveld Occupational therapists (OTs) provide a unique perspective within the field of mental health, acting as catalysts for recovery and enhancers of life quality for individuals navigating diverse challenges. This year, we celebrated Occupational Therapy (OT) Week with the theme “Unity Through Community”, which resonates strongly with OT. Mental health OTs recognize the pivotal role of community connection in fostering mental well-being and tailor interventions to empower individuals to actively participate in their communities. Here are some ways OTs contribute to supporting mental wellness through community engagement: 1. Community Resource Referrals: OTs assess clients’ needs and connect them to relevant local community resources and support services. This ensures a holistic approach to mental health, addressing not only individual challenges but also the broader social context. 2. Volunteer and Work Opportunities: Assisting clients in identify...

Lifeworks Occupational Therapy is proud to offer innovative solutions for pain management, including Scrambler Therapy. Scrambler Therapy is a non-invasive electrical neuromodulation technique that has shown remarkable results in relieving chronic neuropathic pain and cancer pain. Unlike traditional methods, Scrambler Therapy is drug-free and has minimal side-effects. Each Scrambler Therapy session is tailored to the individual’s pain experience, ensuring targeted and effective relief. Clients often report improved mobility, sleep, and overall function following Scrambler Therapy. It is important to note that Scrambler Therapy has no known side effects, but there are contraindications that will be assessed during a comprehensive evaluation to ensure suitability for each individual. If you have patients who could benefit from our Pain Care Occupational Therapy services, including Scrambler Therapy, please feel free to contact our friendly admin team at (08) 7082 0622 or via email a...

Hearing loss can be a challenging condition to navigate, often accompanied by various physical and emotional difficulties. One common symptom that individuals with hearing loss experience is tinnitus, a persistent ringing or buzzing sound in the ears or head without any external source. This bothersome symptom can disrupt sleep, cause anxiety, and significantly impact daily life and overall well-being. Additionally, the diagnosis of hearing loss itself can bring about considerable anxiety. However, as mental health occupational therapists, we are equipped to help individuals understand the relationship between anxiety, tinnitus, and the nervous system. We offer a range of strategies, including cognitive-behavioural therapy, mindfulness, sensory modulation, and stress management, to assist individuals in coping with these challenges. Changes in roles and activities One of the significant changes that individuals with hearing loss may face is the alteration of their roles and activities....

As a health professional, providing the best care is of utmost importance, especially when it comes to individuals experiencing trauma. Symptoms of trauma may manifest as flashbacks, nightmares, uncontrollable thoughts, feelings of fear, helplessness, guilt, anxiety, sadness, mood swings, behaviour changes, difficulty coping, and physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive issues, fatigue, racing heart, sweating, or feeling jumpy. Lifeworks Occupational Therapy has established a solid foundation for assisting individuals with trauma in improving their quality of life. The 3 R’s Model: Regulate, Relate, Reason You may be familiar with the simple 3 R’s model used in the education system – Regulate, Relate, Reason. Occupational Therapists (OTs) employ this model in various ways to build and enhance function in individuals who have experienced trauma. Regulate: One of the most challenging skills for individuals with trauma, particularly complex trauma, is the ability to...

Thanks to apps like Tik Tok, there has been a significantly increased awareness of neurodivergent conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, leading to more adults seeking a diagnosis. As occupational therapists, we are passionate about helping people to overcome barriers and achieve their goals. We have been seeing a greater number of people with ADHD seeking OT for assistance with developing routines, managing their symptoms, and getting important things done. Here are several ways OTs can support people with ADHD: Exploring strategies for improving executive function such as timers, diaries, and environmental modifications Setting up the environment to reduce distractions and improve performance Developing routines Providing psychoeducation on why their brain is the way it is (ADHD is essentially difficulty in regulating attention) Provide strategies on emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness Explore assistive technology such as noise-cancelling headphone...

Sleep is a fundamental aspect of our lives that plays a crucial role in supporting our physical, emotional, and cognitive health. At Lifeworks Occupational Therapy, we understand the profound impact that sleep-related challenges can have on overall functioning and quality of life. That’s why we have developed an approach to sleep management that is rooted in individualisation and evidence-based interventions. When it comes to addressing sleep disturbances, we take a meticulous approach. We carefully assess the factors that may be contributing to sleep difficulties and collaborate with our clients to devise tailored strategies aimed at improving overall sleep quality. Our interventions encompass a spectrum of techniques, including meaningful and purposeful activities, creating a soothing environment, and lifestyle interventions. Meaningful and Purposeful Activities (Occupations): We work closely with individuals to integrate calming activities into their daily routines before bedti...

Complex trauma can impact a person’s daily functioning and quality of life significantly.  As an occupational therapist with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I have witnessed firsthand the powerful role of occupational therapy in helping people on their journey of healing and recovery from complex trauma.  In this post, we explore how occupational therapy can make a significant different in the lives of those who have experienced complex trauma, fostering resilience, empowerment and a renewed sense of purpose.  Understanding complex trauma : The Blue Knot Foundation ( www.blueknot.org.au ) defines complex trauma as “repeated trauma experienced by a child or young person, although it can also occur as an adult. Some people experience trauma across their lives.” These experiences can lead to a range of social, emotional, cognitive and physical challenges, such as anxiety, depression, dissociation, chronic pain, and difficulty with emotion regulation....

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Emotional regulation is an essential component of maintaining optimal mental well-being, as it directly influences an individual’s capacity to navigate daily activities and cultivate healthy relationships. At LifeworksOT, we deeply understand and appreciate the crucial role Occupational Therapists (OTs) play in assisting individuals facing emotional regulation difficulties. By adopting a client-centered approach that is trauma-informed and holistic, OTs can effectively guide individuals in developing and refining their emotional regulation skills, leading to significant improvements in their overall quality of life. At LifeworksOT, we firmly believe that emotional regulation is not a one-size-fits-all concept. Each individual’s journey is unique, and our OTs are committed to tailoring their approach to meet the specific needs and goals of each client. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, our OTs empower individuals to explore and understand their emotions, identif...

In this National Pain Week, we would like to shine a light on a frequently overlooked but incredibly effective pain management strategy – Occupational Therapy (OT). Occupational Therapists (OTs) offer a unique approach to managing chronic pain, one that is especially relevant for complex pain conditions such as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Fibromyalgia. Understanding Chronic Pain in Australia Australia, like many nations, is grappling with chronic pain. As per the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, almost 3.24 million Australians reported living with chronic pain in 2021. Chronic pain can be incredibly debilitating, reducing a person’s quality of life and impacting their ability to engage in daily activities. The Unique Role of Occupational Therapists While physiotherapists help improve your physical function, and psychologists work on the mental-emotional aspects of your pain, occupational therapists bridge the gap, helping you navigate your day-to-day life w...

Sleep problems are intimately connected to PTSD, with insomnia and nightmares being common symptoms experienced by individuals with the disorder. Sleep is essential for our physical, emotional, and cognitive health. We all know how important sleep is. Without it, we feel slow, sluggish, and unproductive. On the contrary, a restful night of sleep leaves us feeling refreshed and energised. Research indicates that sleep problems may precede the development of PTSD or arise as a consequence of the disorder itself [1]. Among those who experience a traumatic event, individuals with significant sleep problems are more likely to develop PTSD in the future. Sleep disturbances in PTSD interfere with the brain’s ability to process memories and emotions, thereby impeding the recovery process after a traumatic event. Recognising the significance of sleep in PTSD recovery, it is crucial to implement strategies that promote better sleep hygiene and address sleep-related difficulties. Occupationa...

Understanding and respecting the cultural values and practices of Australian Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders is essential for providing effective care. At Lifeworks OT, we believe in promoting cultural competency to foster trust, build strong therapeutic relationships, and facilitate a recovery focused, person centered practice. Here are some of the strategies we incorporate in practice: Building Trust and Collaboration: We acknowledge and respect traditional healing practices, beliefs, and customs. We seek to collaborate with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health services to develop culturally appropriate intervention plans. We would like to involve and invite family members and community leaders for support to improve intervention outcomes. Receiving and actioning feedback from services and our clients is integral to this collaborative process.  Communication and Engagement: We practice active listening, use plain language, and respect culturally appropriate termin...

Many of us use the word “ support ” frequently, both in our professional and personal lives. This month OT’s at LIfeworks have been discussing the many facets of support – be they emotional, practical, mental. spiritual, financial or a combination of some/ all of these. Occupational Therapists are trained to “enable” the clients they see, because of their flexible approach, skills in assessment and practical intervention –  and the type of support offered. Too little support leads to overwhelm -with life’s stressors, functional limitations and social isolation. Too much support and a lack of opportunity for growth or development of resilience results. For some clients (and family/friends) asking for support is a hurdle to overcome. Some of us believe it is a sign of weakness or failure. As an OT we see asking for support as a way of saying “I am important enough to warrant help”, which is a great place to start therapy because there is an element of self respect/love a...

The winter season can influence sleep patterns and overall sleep quality. Factors such as decreased sunlight exposure, changes in temperature, and disruptions to daily routines can affect sleep-wake cycles. Reduced sunlight exposure during winter months can impact the regulation of melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep [ 3 ]. These changes in the circadian rhythm can lead to difficulties falling asleep or excessive sleepiness. Sleep is essential for our physical, emotional, and cognitive health. We all know how important sleep is. Without it, we feel slow, sluggish, and unproductive. On the contrary, a restful night of sleep leaves us feeling refreshed and energised. Occupational Therapy (OT) plays a valuable role in addressing sleep problems and seasonal changes by employing various interventions and strategies to improve sleep quality and overall well-being. Here is a brief explanation of the role of Occupational Therapy in addressing sleep and the ways in which winter can impact ...

As a primary care physician, you are well aware of the increasing prevalence of mental health conditions within our community. One tool in management of mental health conditions is occupational therapy (OT). Many primary care physicians are not aware of the full potential of OT in mental health care. For example, did you know that OTs are able to see patients under Medicare’s Better Access to Mental Health (BAMH) Scheme? Here are some tips for understanding the role of OT and referring your patients to appropriate services. What is Occupational Therapy? OT is a type of therapy that helps people develop or regain skills necessary for daily life. Occupational therapists (OTs) work with patients to improve their ability to perform daily tasks, such as self-care, work, home management, accessing the community, and engaging in leisure and social activities. In the context of mental health, OT can help patients to learn the skills to manage their mental health conditions, so they can partici...

The activities that shape our everyday lives often present us with invaluable opportunities for introspection, rejuvenation, and self-care. One such activity that can profoundly impact our wellbeing is the establishment of a morning routine. A morning routine is beneficial for everyone, regardless of their season in life, current role/s, or future ambitions. Setting intention for the day ahead can help us to lay a strong foundation for our mental health and overall sense of balance.  In a world that can often feel chaotic and overwhelming, or out of our control, the ritual of a morning routine offers us of structure and predictability. By carving out dedicated time each morning for self-care and introspection, we create a safe space where we can find solace, comfort, and a sense of control (and no, it doesn’t mean you have to wake up early, although you can choose that if it works for you!) For me, my morning routine involves waking around 6am, sitting quietly with a cup of tea, an...

In our fast-paced, modern world, the quest for mental well-being has become increasingly important. As stress, anxiety, and depression continue to plague countless individuals, seeking solace in ancient practices has emerged as a resounding solution. Among these practices, yoga stands tall as a time-honored discipline that promotes holistic healing. Beyond its physical benefits, yoga’s profound impact on mental health has been scientifically validated, offering a path towards serenity and inner peace. In this blog post, we will explore the remarkable benefits of yoga on mental health and how it can empower individuals to cultivate emotional balance. Stress Reduction: One of the most widely recognized benefits of yoga on mental health is its ability to reduce stress levels. Through the practice of deep breathing, conscious movement, and mindful awareness, yoga cultivates a state of relaxation and tranquility. Regular engagement in yoga has been shown to decrease the production of s...

Sleep and mindfulness are deeply intertwined. Sleep is essential for our physical, emotional, and cognitive health. We all know how important sleep is. Without it, we feel slow, sluggish, and unproductive. On the contrary, a restful night of sleep leaves us feeling refreshed and energised. But how does mindfulness fit into our sleep routine, and how can it enhance our sleep? Mindfulness is the practice of being present and aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. Based on ancient principles from Buddhism and Taoism, mindfulness was introduced to the world of Western psychology by American professor John Kabat-Zinn in the 1990s. When we practice mindfulness, we are more likely to be less reactive and more accepting of our experiences. We learn to observe our thoughts rather than engage in them. It is a way of training our minds to focus and steady our attention. Several scientific studies have shown that mindfulness practices improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia. So, the...

May is Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) Awareness Month. Living with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) can present numerous challenges in daily life. EDS is a group of genetic connective tissue disorders that affect collagen, causing joint hypermobility, skin fragility, and other symptoms. While there is no cure for EDS, occupational therapy (OT) can play a crucial role in managing the condition and improving the quality of life for individuals with EDS. Occupational therapy can help those with EDS lead more independent and fulfilling lives in the following ways: Comprehensive Assessment and Treatment Planning Occupational therapists are skilled in assessing the unique needs and abilities of individuals with EDS. They work closely with patients to conduct a thorough evaluation of their functional limitations, pain levels, joint stability, and overall well-being. Through this assessment process, therapists gain valuable insights into the specific challenges faced by each individual, enabling the...

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, tenderness, fatigue, cognitive difficulties, sleep disturbances, mood disorders, and limitations in physical functioning. On the 12th of May, Fibromyalgia Awareness Day is observed to shed light on this often misunderstood and underdiagnosed condition. An important aspect of managing Fibromyalgia that often goes unnoticed is the role of Occupational Therapy (OT). Occupational therapists play a crucial part in the comprehensive care approach for individuals living with Fibromyalgia. They help individuals regain control over their lives by addressing the functional challenges presented by the disorder. Through a holistic and personalised approach, occupational therapists empower people with Fibromyalgia to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Activity Modification One of the primary interventions occupational therapists provide is acti...

LWOT Pain Care OT Referral Guide (PDF) Download

LWOT Mental Health OT Referral Guide (PDF) Download

​​As a primary care physician, you want to provide the best care for your patients, especially those struggling with chronic pain. One important tool in your arsenal for pain management is occupational therapy (OT). However, many primary care physicians are not aware of the full potential of OT in pain management. Here are some tips for understanding the role of OT and referring your patients to the appropriate services. What is Occupational Therapy? OT is a type of therapy that helps people develop or regain skills necessary for daily life. Occupational therapists (OTs) work with patients to improve their ability to perform daily tasks, such as dressing, cooking, and cleaning. In the context of pain management, OT can help patients learn to manage pain and reduce its impact on daily life. How Can OT Help with Pain Management? OT can help patients with chronic pain in several ways. OTs can provide pain education and teach patients about relaxation techniques and other coping strategies...

Lifeworks OT values our innovative approach when it comes to solving problems and overcoming barriers. The team at Lifeworks OT are constantly striving to incorporate and leverage the advancements in technology to provide the best possible care and outcomes to our clients. Occupational Therapists can draw upon a person’s values and beliefs, their engagement in activity, their social network, or even the virtual environments in which so many of our lives unfold. Lifeworks OT’s use of advancements in technology allows us to provide a unique and innovative service delivery for our clients. Virtual reality is an emerging technology that allows an individual to be completely immersed in a virtual environment. Virtual reality benefits clients through removing a lot of the barriers for them to engage in activities that they find meaningful, creates an escape from their reality to assist psychosocial symptom management, can provide a novel and engaging way to incorporate movement into the...

The activities of our everyday lives can often provide us with opportunities to pause, reflect, and be mindful. One such activity is gardening, which has been found to have many health benefits, including: Relaxation Reducing stress Soothing anxiety, tension and fatigue Physical activity – helps improve endurance, strength, mobility and flexibility Grounding and connectivity A food source (if you choose an edible garden!) As well as providing us with meaningful activity engagement, which gives us a sense of achievement and enjoyment (a core OT principle!) – which helps to boost our mood. At a time when so many of us are disconnected from the world around us (and hyper-connected to technology) – being in a garden provides us with an opportunity for connection. As gardening is an activity that requires our full focus, it takes us away from the distractions and stressors of modern life – thus making it a great form of incidental mindfulness. There are many ways to g...

A chronically activated sympathetic nervous system keeps the body under constant pressure. At Lifeworks Occupational Therapy, we tend to see people who have spent decades or even a lifetime in these activated states.  As Occupational Therapists, we are constantly assessing the factors that maintain an activated nervous system and creating strategies, routines, actions and practical solutions to reduce the effects of ongoing stress and distress. Each solution is created with individual differences, personal goals and an awareness of interpersonal relationships and the environment that surrounds each person.  Solutions may include: Finding meaningful and purposeful activities (occupations); Creating a sensory environment that is soothing and nurturing; Improving quality of sleep; Reviewing ways we think about ourselves, others and our environment; Building compassion and mindfulness into daily practices; Eating well and consistently; Ensuring healthy movement is an integral part...

Lifeworks Occupational Therapy (OT) is renowned for its commitment to delivering targeted and goal-directed assessments and interventions to clients. In our relentless pursuit of innovative approaches, we are excited to announce the commencement of our 2023 group therapy programme. This initiative aims to offer an alternative or supplementary mode of service delivery, augmenting the benefits of individual therapy for our esteemed clients. But why should you refer your clients to a group at Lifeworks OT? Here are compelling reasons that underscore the value of this therapeutic avenue: Learn New Ways of Managing Challenges: By participating in group therapy, your clients gain exposure to diverse perspectives and insights. They can acquire valuable tools for managing challenges, along with the opportunity to change or replace negative behaviors. Group dynamics foster an environment conducive to learning from shared experiences and accessing a range of coping strategies. Foster a Sense of ...

As healthcare professionals, we are acutely aware of the paramount importance of sleep for overall health and well-being. However, finding the right support to address sleep difficulties can often be a challenge. Little known to many, occupational therapy (OT) plays a significant role in working with individuals experiencing sleep problems. The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) has defined the role of occupational therapists in addressing sleep issues as follows: “Occupational therapists use their knowledge of sleep physiology, sleep disorders, and evidence-based sleep promotion practices to evaluate and address the ramifications of sleep insufficiency or sleep disorders on occupational performance and participation.” Comprehensive Interventions for Improved Sleep: Occupational therapists employ a wide range of interventions to assist individuals facing sleep difficulties. These interventions are designed to enhance sleep quality and address various factors th...

Steadiness to navigate professional and personal challenges in a world where fragility seems so obvious at present – in the context of political instability, climate change and technological “threat”. Sturdiness , to enable us to nourish and support each other – especially the generations to come.  For many, Occupational Therapy is about returning to work, succeeding at school or learning how to use assistive device’s that will help achievement. In reality, OT’s see occupation as whatever we choose to spend our time doing – and being. OT’s combine this broad definition of “occupation” with believing that the “doing” needs to have significant meaning and value – for the person “doing it”.  Occupational Therapists are interested in all the domains of life – physical, psychological, social, emotional, spiritual. This gives rise to an approach that is client focussed, and a way of working that values each client, their “others” and the environment ...