Retrospective evaluation of occupational therapy group interventions in psychiatric care in individuals with and without sleep disorders

Sleep disorders are a risk factor for ill health, both physical and mental, and there is a need to raise awareness of the importance of sleep at regional, national, and international levels. Focusing on individuals with sleep disorders is particularly relevant within a psychiatric population, as sleep disorders are a known risk factor for mental health issues.

Increased knowledge is needed about this group when evaluating occupational therapy group interventions, especially given the focus on time use and activity balance as part of the occupational therapy group interventions conducted in outpatient psychiatric care. Sleep disorders may contribute to ill health and reduced participation among individuals with mental health issues. However, more knowledge is needed on how sleep disorders impact treatment.

This project will specifically focus on individuals with sleep disorders to investigate sleep issues as a barrier to participation and how the effectiveness of participation in occupational therapy group interventions in outpatient psychiatry is affected in individuals with sleep disorders compared to those without sleep disorders. Therefore, the project can contribute new knowledge of clinical significance, both for individuals with mental health issues and professionals working within psychiatry, as well as for the research community at large.

The purpose of the project is to evaluate occupational therapy group interventions within psychiatric settings. Special attention will in this project be given to individuals with sleep disorders.

The project will include four studies: a descriptive baseline study, an adherence study, an effectiveness study, and a health economic study.

The project is led by Region Halland and is a collaborative effort with co-researchers from Region Halland, Halmstad University, and the University of Gothenburg.