Document Type
Dissertation
Publication Date
4-23-2025
Abstract
Date: 04/23/2025
Student Name: Tal Johnson
Capstone Project Title: Improving the QOL (Quality of Life) for Persons Diagnosed with SMI (SeriousMental Illness) in Underprivileged Communities
Capstone Faculty Advisor: Dr. Konah Bernard
Abstract:
Individuals with Serious Mental Illness (SMI) in low-income communities face significant barriers to healthcare, social support, and occupational engagement, which adversely impact their quality of life (QOL) (World Health Organization, 2017; National Institute of Mental Health [NIMH], 2021). This Doctoral Capstone Project, implemented at So Others Might Eat (SOME) in Washington, D.C., aimed to advocate for integrated occupational therapy (OT) services to address unmet psychosocial needs. A qualitative needs assessment guided by the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) and the Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) model revealed deficits in key occupations such as medication management, communication, and social participation. As a response, a culturally responsive, evidence-based resource manual was developed to guide SOME staff in supporting individuals with SMI. The project findings reinforce OT's vital role in improving QOL by enhancing functional skills and promoting meaningful engagement (Connell et al., 2014; Ercan, 2021). These efforts support advocacy and potential policy reform to expand OT’s reach in underserved mental health settings.
Recommended Citation
Johnson, Tal and Bernard, Konah, "Improving the QOL (Quality of Life) for Persons Diagnosed with SMI (SeriousMental Illness) in Underprivileged Communities" (2025). Howard University, Department of Occupational Therapy Capstone and Faculty Research. 10.
https://dh.howard.edu/huotresearch/10
