For most people, taking a shower is simply part of the morning routine. At SANCA Wedge Gardens, it can represent the return of a sense of purpose.
That is one of the lessons occupational therapist Puseletso Lephatswa has taken from her work with people recovering from substance use disorders. As World Occupational Therapy Day is marked on October 27, under the theme ‘Participation matters’, she says seemingly ordinary activities can become significant milestones for people rebuilding their lives.
“For many of us, taking a shower is a simple task we do without thinking. For some of the men we work with, everyday tasks can become difficult when they are struggling with substance dependency,” she says.
One of the most meaningful aspects of her work is seeing men regain the confidence to manage daily activities for themselves. What may appear to be a small achievement can mark an important step towards independence, she says.
At Wedge Gardens, occupational therapy is not simply about relearning practical skills. It can also help people rediscover routines, interests and goals that may have been lost during their struggle with substance use.
“Through their use of substances they forgot who they were and what they were becoming,” she says.
“Occupational therapy has given them a chance to do activities they never thought they would do, be present and learn to reflect and transform into better and competent individuals,” Puseletso says.
That is what makes participation so important, she says. Recovery is not only about overcoming substance dependency. It is also about helping people reconnect with the activities that give structure and meaning to everyday life – and gradually regain the confidence to engage in them independently.
Defeating substance dependency
Johannesburg-based SANCA Wedge Gardens is a substance use treatment centre for men. It offers professional treatment based on various pioneering psychological theories.
Its Full Circle Recovery Programme is a holistic, systematic, problem-solving and reality therapy approach supported by a multidisciplinary team that includes a clinical psychologist, social workers, medical and nursing practitioners and a spiritual therapist.
Tel: 011 430 0320