Ninth International Conference on Health, Wellness & Society

Abstract

Studies have shown the power of music in the rehabilitation process to help clients with neurological impairments to cope with anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. However, evidence is scarce on use of music as a therapeutic medium in occupational therapy intervention for client with mental illness. This study aimed to use a ukulele band as a therapeutic medium to understand psychosocial determinants of occupation and to explore the therapeutic effects of adults diagnosed with serious mental illnesses . Six participants were recruited from the psychiatric center in Taiwan and participated in the ukulele band once a week for six months. Each session included an 80-minute lecture and a 60-minute practicing time with group members. Post-tests were administered after they completed 24 sessions. Assessments included a satisfaction questionnaire, the WHOQOL-BREF-Taiwan Version to measure QoL, Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale, and Chinese Version Yalom’s group Therapeutic Factors. Semi-structured interviews were conducted individually to understand participants’ experience.Results showed that the participants’ QoL was at a moderate level and their self-esteem was better than the norm. Based on Yalom’s Inventory, majority of the participants ranked the interpersonal output the highest therapeutic factor followed by instillation of hope and group cohesiveness. In the individual interviews, they pointed out that they enjoyed playing ukulele with each other, made good friends in the group, and could use ukulele to release stress. This study demonstrates the way our profession helping people engage in valued occupations that contribute to their health and well-being.