Effectiveness of Occupational Therapy Interventions in Improving Activities of Daily Living Among Adults with Severe Mental Illness: A Systematic Review

Severe mental illnesses (SMI) often disrupt the ability to perform basic Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing and eating. These are tasks that are fundamental to autonomy, dignity and social participation. This systematic review examines how occupational therapy (OT) interventions aim to restore these critical skills in adults diagnosed with SMI, following criteria established by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE,2016). Through an analysis of studies published between 2009 and 2024, the review addresses various intervention approaches such as home-based routines, group- based activities, individualized therapy sessions as well as innovative programs like animal assisted therapy. The evidence overwhelmingly supports a positive conclusion: tailored occupational therapy, particularly when matched to the individual’s needs and focused in real-world settings, can improve both basic and instrumental ADLs, especially when implemented early in treatment.  These findings reinforce occupational therapy’s essential contribution to functional recovery, even as the literature points to persisting gaps. Several studies are marked by small sample sizes and show inconsistent outcome measures, showing the need for more robust research. Future research should include larger participant groups, extended follow-up periods, standardized ADL assessments and mixed-method designs that capture both measurable outcomes and the lived experiences of those receiving care.