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Occupational performance problems in people with depression and anxiety
Anna Birgitta Gunnarsson1,2, Anna-Karin Hedberg3, Carita Håkansson4
1Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Section for Health and Rehabilitation, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Scandinavian Journal of Occupational Therapy
|February 11, 2021
Summary
People with depression and anxiety disorders face significant challenges in daily life, impacting self-care, productivity, and social activities. This study highlights their occupational performance deficits and satisfaction levels.
Area of Science:
- Occupational therapy
- Mental health research
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Depression and anxiety disorders significantly impair daily functioning in working-age adults.
- Limited understanding exists regarding the occupational performance deficits in individuals with these mental health conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify specific everyday occupations affected by depression and anxiety.
- To describe the nature of occupational performance problems experienced by individuals with these disorders.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study utilizing data from the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure.
- 118 participants (aged 18-65) with depression or anxiety were recruited from primary and mental healthcare settings.
- Descriptive statistics and directed content analysis were employed for data analysis.
Main Results:
- Participants reported low occupational performance and even lower satisfaction with their performance.
- A high frequency of problems was noted in household management, socialization, and personal care.
- Detailed qualitative data illustrate the specific challenges encountered in daily occupations.
Conclusions:
- This research elucidates the occupational challenges faced by individuals with depression and anxiety across self-care, productivity, and leisure domains.
- The findings underscore the impact on personally valued occupations, influencing performance and satisfaction.
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