University experiences of occupational therapy in Brazil during the Covid-19 pandemic: Contributions and support in mental health for the population

ABSTRACT

Brazil stands out in the world for having a president who refers to the coronavirus pandemic (Covid-19) as a ‘little flu’. Social inequalities in the country are worsening and telehealth was only increased after the pandemic was installed. The aim of this article is to reflect and discuss telehealth in occupational therapy, presenting the techniques, themes and research in the initial phase on supporting groups for adults. Online social networks were used to invite and organise interested people. Virtual meetings are happening twice a week by video call and in addition we are also supporting chat through a WhatsApp group. People are reporting improvements in daily routines, personal relationships and anxiety. The most common themes are about everyday life, life history, difficulty in sleeping, eating, socialising with the same people 24 h a day, childhood trauma, politics and gender violence. We understand the important role of occupational therapy in analysis and intervention in people's life to reduce the risk of emotional distress, suffering and mental illness.

KEYWORDS:

• Occupational therapy
• mental health
• health emergencies
• support groups
• Covid-19

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).