Does an occupational therapy programme to support wellbeing during unemployment influence the relationship between meaningful activity participation and psychosocial measures?

It is well documented that unemployment can have detrimental effects on one’s health (Paul and Moser 2009) which occupational therapy can help prevent (Bade and Eckert 2008). Previous research has demonstrated the importance of engaging in meaningful activities (Eklund et al 2003). Few studies have examined the relationship between meaningful activity engagement and psychosocial measures in the context of unemployment. This study evaluates the influence of an occupational therapy programme on the relationship between the Meaningful Activity Participation Assessment (MAPA) and symptoms of depression and anxiety, self-esteem and coping measures. Four unemployed participants completed an eight-week occupational therapy programme to support wellbeing during unemployment. The MAPA, BDI-II, BAI, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and Brief COPE were administered to participants pre and post-intervention. Results indicated there may be a postitive relationship between the MAPA and Brief COPE and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and a negative relationship between the MAPA and the BDI-II. Results were inconclusive whether a negative relationship exists between the MAPA and BAI. The hypothesis that MAPA scores would increase post-intervention was partially supported. This study furthers research on the psychological benefit of meangingful activity engagement and the contribution occupational therapy programmes can make to improving the health of unemployed individuals.