Brittany Ferri

The prevalence of trauma across the lifespan is significant, and occupational therapists across all practice settings are very likely to interact with clients who have some type of trauma history. Exposure to trauma can impact an individual’s ability to participate in various activities in their lives. These include, but are not limited to ADLs, IADLs, social participation, health management and maintenance, and leisure participation. This makes it essential for therapists to understand how to properly address trauma.

New research finds that genetic similarities between certain mental health conditions may lead them to overlap. Experts grouped conditions into five main groups based on these similarities. Moving forward, mental health professionals can use these categories to help with the early diagnosis of co-occurring conditions and increase access to care.

Methamphetamine (meth) addiction has proven to be one of the more difficult substance use disorders to manage, as there have not previously been medicinal treatments like there are for opioids or alcohol. However, new research in mice brains shows that immune-modulating medicines may have the potential to address the neuroinflammatory markers present in those who have meth addiction, although more research is needed.

With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and similar technologies, the mental health industry is seeing a surge of unregulated apps that claim to help individuals reduce substance use. While recovery apps can be a helpful adjunct to professional treatment, they vary in quality, content, and efficacy, and should never be considered an alternative to professional treatment.

The type of charges someone faces due to drug-related offenses varies depending on the type and quantity of drug(s) involved, prior offenses, and intent for using the drugs. It is important to have legal representation for drug charges, as drug possession lawyers help you build a defense, ensure your rights are respected, and minimize the legal consequences associated with your charges.

Accurate and thorough documentation is a cornerstone of the occupational therapy profession. It ensures clients receive effective, evidence-based care tailored to their goals, supports reimbursement for services, and promotes clear communication among multidisciplinary healthcare teams. Documentation also helps occupational therapy practitioners remain compliant with the OT Code of Ethics and meet legal and regulatory standards. Despite these advantages, documentation can be time-consuming and challenging—especially across different practice settings, each with its own unique requirements.

When someone is under the influence of an intoxicating substance, causing a disturbance or harming themselves/others, and is in a public location, they may be charged with public intoxication. There are several long-term effects associated with this charge, many of which complicate the recovery process for people with substance use disorder. Harm reduction techniques are recommended to ensure well-being and minimize legal implications for individuals in recovery.

Since 2023, the United States has seen a decline in the number of deaths stemming from opioid overdoses. This was also around the time when the nation’s supply of illicit fentanyl became less potent, leading many to question whether the two events are associated. We’re now seeing data that suggests there is a link between these occurrences.

Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, or OCPD, is a personality disorder marked by a significant focus on work or productivity, neatness, order, and perfectionism. Individuals with OCPD may experience distress, impaired relationships, and difficulty fulfilling their responsibilities as a result of rigid thinking and impulsivity. OCPD responds best to therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy that help target lasting changes in thinking and behavior. The prognosis for OCPD is dependent on how willing the individual is to attend therapy and make positive changes in their life.

Most people have become used to describing their personality and social tendencies as either ‘introverted’ or ‘extraverted. In 2025, a well-known psychiatrist wrote a book called The Gift of Not Belonging where he presented a third personality type called otroverts. According to Dr. Kaminski, otroverts display some extraverted and introverted qualities, but are non-conformists who don’t belong to either group.

Around 12% of Americans have been diagnosed with insomnia, though many more struggle with falling asleep, staying asleep, or simply getting good quality sleep. [1] In an effort to help them get more rest, many people turn to cannabis or alcohol. While they may cause short-term improvements, these substances majorly impact sleep quality and can lead to dependence, substance use disorders, and health complications. A recent study found this trend is growing, especially among youth, making it essential to understand and properly manage substance use disorders and co-occurring sleep problems.

With the new year upon us, many people are setting resolutions and making a commitment to live healthier. January is a time for new beginnings, which is why it has been named Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month. This not only spreads awareness of the importance of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment, but also encourages people to consider whether addiction treatment is right for them or someone they know.

Occupational therapists are client-centered providers and have strong backgrounds in human development, health management, chronic disease maintenance, mental health, and more. This places our profession in an ideal spot to serve as consultants in primary care settings such as doctors’ offices, community health centers, and urgent care clinics. OTs can also support physicians who make house calls for homebound patients and potentially even primary care doctors who visit their institutionalized patients in need of oversight.

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is defined as heavy or frequent consumption of alcohol that negatively interferes with functioning in school, work, social, and interpersonal activities. Someone with AUD may engage in binge drinking, which is defined as having 4-5 or more drinks on one occasion. Heavy drinking is characterized by consuming 8-15 drinks in one week.

With AI platforms gaining popularity, some individuals are developing AI dependence. Just as with many behavioral addictions, AI dependence can pose health risks (including emotional dependence, decreased cognitive processing, and difficulty with problem-solving) and also has the potential to impact relationships and work or school performance. This makes it essential to know the warning signs and how to manage AI dependence if it arises.