Introduction: Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric condition characterized by alternating episodes of depression and mania. It is a serious mental illness marked by recurrent periods of depression and mania or hypomania. The disorder affects an individual's mood, behavior, and ability to function in everyday life. Due to its negative impact on social relationships, occupational performance, and overall quality of life, it is important to understand the different approaches to its treatment. Purpose: To explore the importance and role of occupational therapy in the treatment of patients with bipolar disorders. Methods: A review of professional and scientific literature addressing the use of occupational therapy in the treatment of bipolar disorder. Inclusion of literature published from 2000 to the present day. Sources were searched in databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Cobiss and Cinahl. The following keywords were used: "work* therapist", "mania", "depression", "mental disorders", "therapeutic work". Results: Through content analysis and synthesis of the categories, three main areas were identified: types of interventions, context of occupational therapy interventions and outcomes of interventions. The following subcategories have been identified as important within the framework of intervention types: cognitive interventions, sensory strategy interventions, environment-oriented interventions, vocational rehabilitation interventions, recovery through narrative, spirituality and education, and narrative, reflective and psychoeducational interventions. In the context of occupational therapy intervention, the following subcategories emerged: models used in occupational therapy, home or institution, the context of reflection and narrative, and social inclusion and community impact through occupational therapy interventions. Intervention outcomes included improvements in daily functional abilities, cognitive enhancement, participation in everyday activities, increased self-awareness and personal development, support in employment and vocational recovery, and integration and inclusion in society. Discussion and conclusion: The aim of this thesis was to explore the role of occupational therapy in individuals with bipolar disorder. The literature review showed that occupational therapy enhances daily functional abilities, independence, social inclusion, and quality of life. Key approaches include cognitive and sensory interventions, psychoeducation, and vocational rehabilitation. A holistic, individualized approach increases the effectiveness of interventions. Despite proven benefits, there remains room for further research and adaptation of occupational therapy methods.
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