Exploring the occupations of homeless adults living with mental illnesses in Toronto / Explorer les occupations d’adultes sans-abri atteints de maladies mentales vivant à Toronto

Abstract

Background. The nature of occupational engagement for homeless people living with mental illnesses is not well understood, and there are few studies to date that examine the occupational lives of these individuals. Purpose. This research study seeks to understand how this group of individuals engages in occupations. The central question is ‘‘What is the nature of occupational engagement by homeless adults living with mental illnesses in Toronto?’’ Method. A constant comparative method of analysis was used in a secondary analysis of 60 interviews with homeless adults experiencing mental illness. Findings. Four themes emerged that describe the nature of occupational engagement for this group: occupations as enjoyment, occupations as survival/risk, occupations as passing time, and occupations as self-management. Implications. This research informs occupational therapy interventions aimed at optimizing engagement, health, and well-being for homeless adults living with mental illnesses.