Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapists work with people of all ages who are
experiencing anxiety because anxiety can interfere with a person’s ability to
do every day activities and how they fill their time/occupations. For
children with anxiety, going to school, playing with other children, or
activities at home like staying organized, doing homework, eating, sleeping, or
dressing, may be difficult. For adults, every day activities like going
to work, doing the grocery shopping, or sleeping, may be impacted by
anxiety.
At Healing Circles, our OT is trained specifically in use of OT
with a Sensory Integration approach, which means the ability to discern whether
there are “hidden” differences in how the brain and body are working
together. If a person has challenges in how they sense or experience the
world around them or, or how they move it can contribute to increases in
anxiety and decreased self-esteem. Strategies used in OT may include
Integrated Listening Systems (iLs) (www.integratedlistening.com),
home programs called “sensory diets” to make sure the brain and body receive
optimal types and amounts of input throughout the day to ensure basic body
functions become regulated and to help a person “feel” better. Basic tools like
use of specialized pillows, blankets, and brushes, along with daily exercises
and often fun activities with these tools may improve brain function and
decrease overall levels of anxiety, especially when used in conjunction with
other therapies to ensure a mindful approach to personal recovery.
Kelly Beins, OTR/L can be reached at kbeins@otc-frederick.com or 301-712-9015 ext. 1028.
No comments:
Post a Comment