“Keep on running” (Jackie Edwards 1965)

 


The first picture, is the latest edition (published last week) of the “official” trade journal for occupational therapists. As you will see in the second one, it contains an article written by myself.

 

I think that its publication is last week’s “highlight”. Hence the following:

 

It was actually written, quite a while ago and its publication motivated me to re-read it. This in turn, provided inspiration for this (very short indeed!) post. 

 

The article is largely autobiographical of Phil v2.0. Through an articulation of my current full lifestyle, and its positive effect on my emotional wellbeing, it is intended to illustrate a clear link between activity and mental healthcare.

 

You might recall from a few weeks ago, that I have been asked to write a foreword for a new occupational therapy handbook. You will probably ascertain from the title of its predecessor, that the writer takes the same view (on reading, it is clear that to her, “recovery” means the maximisation of an individual’s mental health).




I know that I have said it many times before, but I really feel that the manner in which I spend my time, is of immense importance to my mental wellbeing.

 

For this reason, I have developed an affinity with the occupational therapy profession - who motivate and facilitate meaningful occupation. I firmly believe that through doing this, they (in appropriate cases - such as with myself) do much more than assisting with activities for their own sake. In undertaking their role, occupational therapists are making a significant contribution towards my mental healthcare. As I have said in various circumstances - for that, I am very grateful.

 

My aforementioned article contained a quotation of Michael Stipe (REM frontman):

 

“A three-legged dog is still a dog; it just has to learn how to run differently”. 

 

I followed this with the words:

 

“I am still Phil (albeit Phil v2.0) and occupational therapists are helping me to run again”. 

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