Sexuality and intimate relationships in a psychiatric rehabilitation program

Occupation-based groups, focused on relationships and intimacy, are appropriate for the mental health population as they can address relevant ADLs and IADLs while providing access to sexual health education (American Occupational Therapy Association [AOTA], 2020). An integral component of daily life, sexuality contributes to self-esteem and the overall human experience (Lohman et al., 2017). Individuals diagnosed with a serious mental illness (SMI) may experience persistent issues related to intimacy and sexual expression, possibly leading to potential avoidance of intimate relationships (McCann et al., 2019; McClure, 2012). According to Anderson (2013), sexual activity can be linked to decreased rates of depression, increased self-worth, and a greater sense of belonging. The relevant primary occupations of sexual activity, intimate partner relationships, and personal device care (e.g., sexual devices), as described in the fourth edition of the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework: Domain and Process (OTPF-4; AOTA, 2020), can be addressed using a therapeutic approach. Initiating conversations about sexual health supports normalizing the topic and provides a foundation for delivering quality and holistic services (Ellis, 2020).