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ePoster Viewing
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Wan-Ting Lin

Feasibility of an Individualized Group Intervention with Telehealth Support for Occupational Balance in Outpatients with Depression

Wan-Ting Lin1, Yun-Ling Chen2, Chuan-Yi Kao3

1 1. Department of Occupational Therapy, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; 2. School of Occupational Therapy, National Taiwan University, Taiwan

2 1. Department of Occupational Therapy, Chung Shan Medical University; 2. Occupational Therapy Room, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taiwan

3 1. Department of Psychiatry, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan; 2. Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan

Introduction / Rationale: Individuals with depression often face challenges maintaining occupational balance. Research on occupational therapy interventions addressing this issue is limited, with studies largely focused on traditional group activities and little exploration of individualized or technology-based approaches.

Objectives: This study aims to: (1) develop an individualized occupational balance intervention program for people with depression; (2) evaluate the feasibility of the program.

Methods/ Approach: A one-group pretest-posttest mixed-methods design was used. Eleven outpatients with depression (6 males, 5 females, mean age 28.54 years) were referred by psychiatrists at a medical center in central Taiwan. Participants underwent a four-week group intervention consisting of weekly two-hour sessions and a regular telephone support. The group themes include daily routines, time management, interpersonal skills, and stress coping. The intervention was individualized based on participants’ assessment results of Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM). Data analysis was conducted using Friedman test and qualitative content analysis of participants’ feedback.

Results/ Practice Implications: The changes in performance and satisfaction scores for individualized goals measured by COPM did not reach statistical significance. However, feedback from questionnaires indicated that the majority of participants were satisfied with the group content, perceived positive influence on occupational balance, and expressed willingness for future participation in programs. This study provides preliminary evidence supporting the feasibility of combining individualized group activities with regular telephone support to improve occupational balance in individuals with depression.

Conclusion/ Contribution to the occupational therapy profession: This pilot study provides preliminary evidence supporting the feasibility of an individualized occupational balance intervention for people with depression. The findings demonstrates the potential of this combined approach within community-based occupational therapy.