Healthcare

Biography

Biography: Natalia Mendes

Abstract

Background Currently there is one women-only prevention and recovery centre (WPARC) in Australia. This is a sub-acute residential setting for vulnerable women recovering from acute mental health issues. The established literature emphasizes the importance of gender-specific recovery services for women, especially biological differences, expectations of recovery by men and women, and environmental safety. There is little literature about ‘how’ occupational therapists and other health practitioners might provide gender-specific care for women and if changing to a women’s only recovery space will significantly improve recovery outcomes. Hence, the need for resources and research in this area is increasingly acknowledged. Method The resources available at the WPARC were evaluated using qualitative analysis. Gender-specific methods and ways of improving quality of care for vulnerable women were identified. Discussion/outcomes The goal is to improve the quality of services for women in single gender recovery settings and enhance the physical environment to better meet women’s needs, to improve their mental health status and outcomes. Increasing the knowledge and capacities of occupational therapists about gender-sensitive and safe practices is key, as is increasing the opportunities for women to engage in meaningful occupations in gender-specific settings. Conclusion Widely recognizing the importance of a safe gender-specific environment and improving service provision is critical to women participating fully in the recovery process. Information from this research will support occupational therapists working in gender-specific mental health services.