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About Support

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 already present.

Knowing when someone needs a genuine reassuring word, or the right amount of challenge is not easy. Comprehensive listening skills, a broad-based toolbox of interventions and keeping the person’s values front-of-mind, guide Occupational Therapists to provide an enabling supportive approach for our client. That way, interventions are relevant and meaningful to the client and their significant others.

Asking ourselves – at work and in our private lives – does the support we offer provide for growth or encourage overwhelm, is a worthy self question at times. Checking with ourselves, are we feeling supported, overwhelmed or in need of a different type of connection, is most important too.

The way we like to experience support, the type and amount needed is a very individual concept. Are we tuned into this?

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