Occupational therapy is a term that many people have heard of, but they might not necessarily be aware of exactly what it entails. Simply put, an occupational therapist’s job is to encourage improved health and wellbeing in people by encouraging them to work with a range of everyday activities.
Occupational therapists deal with a range of psychological and physical injuries.
Although many people are referred to an occupational therapist through work, they also interact with youngsters and other individuals from a wide range of backgrounds who require help.
Occupational therapists can be found all over the country, but figures show that the highest proportion are found in New South Wales. The Occupational Therapy Board of Australia reveals that 28 per cent of the country’s total number of therapists are in this particular state, giving residents a greater choice should they ever need their services.
There are certain situations where you might find yourself in need of an occupational therapist – here are just some of them.
Suffering a workplace injury
Workplace injuries are a reality for many Australian businesses. Figures from Safe Work Australia show that in 2011-12, New South Wales accounted for 13.5 per cent of total serious claims in the country, down slightly from the 14.4 per cent recorded in the previous year.
Occupational therapists are involved in assessing the rehabilitation of people who have suffered an injury.
Their experience means that they will be able to understand the specifics of certain jobs, and what their patients will be expected to do at work. By treating them over a period of time, therapists will gain a better understanding of just how well an individual will be able to perform their work-related tasks.
Mental health problems
Occupational therapy can also relate to any mental health issues that employees might encounter. These can be just as debilitating as a physical injury, and make it difficult for them to carry out their day to day duties.
Statistics from Beyond Blue show that depression is the world’s biggest cause of disability. It’s likely to affect as many as 45 per cent of Australians at some point during their lifetime.
Therapists will work with their patients to help develop a set of coping mechanisms which will allow them to handle their situation and circumstances. Their job is also to improve self-esteem and help people become more independent in their daily activities.
In our line of work, many of our clients will be assessed as never being able to carry out their usual occupation after their injury.
If you have suffered illness or injury (including psychological) at work, then be sure to get in touch with us about seeking compensation via a number of compensation avenues.
To seek injury compensation there are a number of avenues which may be available to you.