Exploring the mental health roots of occupational therapy in Canada: a historical review of primary texts from 1925-1950.
OBJECTIVE
This historical study focused on understanding the influence of mental health concepts and practices on the profession of occupational therapy in Canada during the first part of the 20th century.


METHODS
The authors examined early editions of the Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy (CJOT) and other primary works from 1925-1950 to identify key events and themes.


RESULTS
Analysis of these key historical documents revealed four themes: (1) Idle hands, emotional mischief, social unrest; (2) The grand vision; (3) Practical reality: Disparity between theory and practice; and (4) Understanding occupation: Approaches and methods to promote mental health. A timeline of key events related to occupational therapy practice and mental health also emerged.


CONCLUSIONS
Reflecting on the history of a profession can assist its members to understand current practices and future possibilities.
Sedgwick
Amy
A
Red Tent Sisters, Toronto, Canada. amy@redtentsisters.com
Cockburn
Lynn
L
Trentham
Barry
B
D002170:Canada; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D008603:Mental Health; D009788:Occupational Therapy / Q000193:education / Q000266:history*; D011570:Psychiatry / Q000266:history*