BOREDOM DURING THE PSYCHIATRIC STAY : LEADS FOR INTERVENTION BY OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS

Abstract

Introduction. Boredom is a complex feeling that can have deleterious effects on physical and psychological health. People with a mental health disorder are particularly vulnerable to boredom during psychiatric hospitalization. However, the problem of boredom is still little considered in hospital care. Occupational therapists, in their capacity as occupation professionals, would like to consider it more in their interventions.

Method. The objectives of this study are to document the current practices of occupational therapists and to design an intervention model for the management of boredom in the hospital context. This is a qualitative study based on a descriptive-interpretive design. Two focused discussion groups were conducted with occupational therapists (n = 16) working in the psychiatry department of a Swiss university hospital.

Results. The first focus group was used to describe the problem of boredom in the hospital setting. The second focus group was used to identify current and potential avenues of intervention grouped into ten themes : defining boredom, addressing boredom, assessing boredom, working with other professionals towards common goals, providing opportunities for meaningful activities, supporting the development of personal strategies, fostering self-determination, fostering social connections and contacts, supporting empowerment through therapeutic education. An intervention process was outlined on the basis of these approaches.

Conclusion. This study proposes concrete avenues of intervention organized in the form of a process for occupational therapy practice. It highlights the importance for professionals to carefully consider boredom in the psychiatric hospital environment and to value the notion of the meaning of activities in the management of boredom.