•  
  •  
 

Abstract

Abstract

Purpose: This article proposes an opportunity for interprofessional collaboration between mental health practitioners (MHPs) and occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) for the treatment of women experiencing mental health disorders (MHDs) associated with reproductive health (RH) changes throughout the lifespan. This collaborative approach have the potential to optimize women’s health care and mitigate the risk of fragmented care, as these conditions are highly complex.

Method: Peer- reviewed literature from mental health and occupational therapy (OT) research was reviewed and summarized. The search focused on the barriers and potential opportunities for collaboration between MHPs and OTPs in women affected with MHDs associated with RH.

Results: Emerging literature identifies the unique physical and mental health needs of these women; however, little research identifies effective treatments to support them. This paper proposes opportunities for collaboration between MHPs and OTPs to facilitate optimal mental health outcomes and improved quality of life (QoL).

Conclusion: Interprofessional collaborations that include OT can improve mental health outcomes and augment traditional mental health treatments, as OTPs are highly skilled at helping individuals manage their personal, environmental, and occupational needs.

Share

COinS
 
 

To view the content in your browser, please download Adobe Reader or, alternately,
you may Download the file to your hard drive.

NOTE: The latest versions of Adobe Reader do not support viewing PDF files within Firefox on Mac OS and if you are using a modern (Intel) Mac, there is no official plugin for viewing PDF files within the browser window.