A narrative review of the literature, from occupational therapy journals, regarding restorative occupational choices of individuals who live with schizophrenia.

non-peer-reviewedIntroduction: Occupational therapy is based on the premise that engagement in meaningful occupation is imperative to a person’s wellbeing, and in order for an occupation to be meaningful it must be chosen autonomously. This research explores how restorative occupational choice is represented in the literature in relation to individuals who live with schizophrenia. Living with schizophrenia may contribute to both internal and external factors which have an impact on an individual’s ability to participate in occupations of their choice and it is important to understand factors which may hinder or support chosen occupations by understanding how individuals spent their time. Method: Twenty-three databases were searched and 1610 studies were then screened. Data from seven studies which met the inclusion criteria were examined and synthesised using thematic analysis. The quality of evidence was assessed across all studies and found to be generally of good quality. Findings: The types of restorative occupational choices engaged in by individuals who live with schizophrenia vary, but the common theme which emerged included the importance of engagement in productive activities. The importance of routine in order to achieve a sense of satisfaction, and the influence of environment, was also emphasised as being significant in relation to opportunities for restorative occupational choice. The demands of the illness were identified as a possible barrier to restorative occupational choice. Conclusion: The more occupationally engaged the individual is, the better the quality of life for the individual, however, this can be determined by the ability to make the right choices, bearing in mind both external and internal factors