Spirituality in Bedlam: Exploring Patient Conversations on Acute Psychiatric Units

Background: Spirituality is a complex yet vital aspect of care on acute psychiatric units. Occupational therapists play a role in engaging their clients regarding spirituality as a resource for recovery.

Purpose: This manuscript reports on Part I of a research study that explored the experience of spiritual conversations for patients (Part I) and mental health professionals (Part 2) on acute psychiatric units.

Method: Community-based participatory research framed the project philosophically and relationally, and interpretive description defined the data collection, data analysis, and dissemination methods.

Findings: Seven inpatients on acute psychiatric units participated in interviews or focus groups. Authentic spiritual conversation that was not associated with mental illness symptoms proved difficult to initiate on inpatient psychiatric units. Participants desired direct questioning and the provision of optional spiritual resources.

Implications: Therapists can make a range of spirituality educational resources available for clients. They can also advocate for clients' spiritual needs in the acute context.