Sensory Processing Patterns and Their Relationships to Coping and Occupational Engagement in Mental Health Service Users

Abstract

Introduction Mental health service users often have sensory processing difficulties hampering their ability to cope with mental health problems and occupational engagement. However, there is little knowledge of sensory processing and its relation to these factors. Hence, this current study aims to investigate sensory processing patterns in relation to coping and occupational engagement for the target group.

Methods This cross-sectional study involved 97 mental health service users. Sociodemographic information and self-rated questionnaires were administered; Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP), Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced Inventory scale (short version) (Brief-COPE), and Profiles of Occupational Engagement among people with Severe mental illness (POES). Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression models.

Consumer and Community Involvement This study sits within an RCT project where parts were designed collaboratively with research-educated service users.

Results The result showed strong relationships between sensory processing patterns and occupational engagement. Low levels of occupational engagement were related to high levels of sensory sensitivity, sensation avoiding, and low registration. Whereas, high levels of occupational engagement were related to high levels of sensation-seeking. Concerning coping styles, high levels of emotion-focused coping were related to high levels of low registration, while high levels of avoidant coping styles were related to high levels of sensation-seeking.

Conclusion The findings indicate that occupational engagement and coping styles are related to outcomes of the sensory profile and thus affect how a person with severe mental health problems interprets and reacts to sensory stimuli in daily life.