Exploring Australian child and youth mental health occupational therapists’ perception and utilisation of creative activities: A survey snapshot

Introduction: Creative activities have traditionally been an important therapeutic medium in occupational therapy; however, research suggests a decline in their perceived efficacy, utilisation, and teaching. This study explored Australian child and youth mental health (CYMH) occupational therapists’ perceptions and use of creative activities. Method: A 31-item web-based survey, comprising quantitative and qualitative questions, was disseminated via convenience sampling to collect data from Australian CYMH occupational therapists. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric Mann–Whitney U tests were used for quantitative data, with inductive content analysis used for qualitative data. Results: Analysis of 33 completed surveys revealed creative activities were perceived as a highly efficacious therapeutic medium (78%), utilised most frequently multiple times a week (66%). All respondents utilised creative activities, although 64% were not content with their current use. Although 67% rated confidence using creative activities highly, 97% identified additional training needs to feel more confident. Three main categories central to use of creative activities arose: ‘creative activities as a therapeutic medium’, ‘legitimacy of creative activities within occupational therapy’ and ‘initial and ongoing professional development’. Conclusion: Australian CYMH occupational therapists perceived and utilised creative activities positively. Lack of discipline-specific evidence and unmet training needs impacted confidence in their use.