Development and Evaluation of OT-Focused Psychoeducational Materials for Adults with Severe Mental Illness

Importance: This study highlights a clear need for OT involvement with adults with severe mental illness, bridging the gap in mental health treatment by focusing on function, independence, and quality of life. OT-designed psychoeducation modules can provide support to integrate skills needed to manage illness with the demands of everyday life. Objective: The objective was to develop and evaluate psychoeducational materials for adults with severe mental illness. Design: This study uses a mixed methods approach through observation, interviews, and a one- time post-development evaluation survey using both quantitative and qualitative measures. Setting: This study took place at Community Friendship Incorporated’s (CFI) Psychosocial Rehabilitation group day program. CFI is a nonprofit psychiatric rehabilitation organization located in Atlanta, Georgia. Participants: Evaluation participants were recruited from the staff and key stakeholders directly related to CFI’s psychosocial rehabilitation program. Inclusion criteria: adults (18+), currently working with the PSR program, a degree/certification related to mental health, 8th grade reading level or above, and able to provide consent. N=5. Outcomes and Measures: 20 developed psychoeducational materials/resources (handouts/flyers, presentations, activities, educational materials) covering various content areas. Modified version of the System Usability Scale (SUS) and qualitative feedback questions Results: Module topics were identified for creation of materials related to Diagnosis Understanding and Management, Habit Building and Goal Setting, Engagement and Quality of Life, and Coping Skills. The perceived usability and acceptability of materials was excellent and overall high satisfaction reported through qualitative feedback (n=5). Conclusions and Relevance: OT-focused psychoeducational materials are an effective way to support recovery goals and improve quality of life in adults with SMI. Plain Language Summary This study was done to see if occupational therapy-focused psychoeducational materials could support adults with severe mental illness in areas related to their recovery goals and overall independence, function, and quality of life. The materials developed were divided into the following categories but are not a comprehensive compilation of everything needed in mental health treatment: Diagnosis Understanding and Symptom Management, Habit Building and Goal Setting, Engagement and QoL, and Coping Skills. The results of this study found excellent usability ratings and high overall satisfaction with diversity and variety of materials. This means that OT-focused psychoeducational materials can help individuals with severe mental illness feel more independent, functional, and capable of managing their illness and elements of daily life. This supports the role of occupational therapy in mental health programs and community rehabilitation settings.