Media Release
Mangaluru, Oct 27: Occupational Therapy, or OT, helps people of all ages live life to the fullest,” said Dr Florance Angelin. “Whether recovering from illness, injury, or living with a disability, occupational therapists support individuals in daily activities like dressing, eating, working, studying, or spending time with family. OT empowers people to be independent, confident, and capable in their everyday lives.”
Even today, many people are not fully aware of what Occupational Therapy actually is. Some think it means helping people find jobs, while others believe OTs work only with children with autism or people with mental health issues. In truth, OT is much broader. It’s about helping anyone, at any age, do the daily activities that give life purpose and satisfaction. From children learning to play and study, to adults recovering from injury, to older people regaining balance and independence, OT touches lives in countless ways.
Life can change in an instant. Illness, injury, or disability can make daily tasks challenging,” says Dr Pranjali Mhatre. “Occupational Therapy helps people regain their strength, confidence, and independence. From buttoning a shirt or cooking a meal to returning to work, OT turns everyday activities into steps toward recovery. It is not just about physical healing; it’s about living fully, adapting tasks, and believing in one’s abilities again.”
Occupational therapists also play an important role in mental health and emotional well-being. They help people rebuild confidence after depression, find calm during anxiety, and reconnect with life after trauma. Through meaningful and creative activities, they help individuals rediscover themselves and find joy in small but powerful moments like cooking a meal, writing again, or holding a loved one’s hand.
Dr Abhipsha Biswal highlighted, “Occupational Therapy supports individuals with special needs at any age. It helps children and adults develop daily living skills, independence, and overall well-being, while also promoting participation in education, work, and community life through inclusive services and assistive devices.”
Occupational Therapy stands out because it looks at the whole person. Rather than focusing only on an illness or disability, occupational therapists pay attention to an individual’s strengths, goals, emotions, and the activities that bring them joy. OT is about helping people reconnect with life and participate fully, not just treating a problem.
Dr Deepika Josephine stated, “Every person carries their own story, and sometimes that story needs a new way to be lived. Occupational Therapy gives people that chance, the chance to heal, to grow, and to live again with purpose. Celebrating Occupational Therapy Day reminds us of the courage it takes to rebuild life, one small step at a time. It honours the strength of those who never give up and the compassion of therapists who walk beside them in their journey toward independence. Our message to the community is simple: never underestimate the power of your daily routines, they are the essence of who you are. Today, we celebrate your courage to rebuild and your determination to live life meaningfully. Occupational Therapy is not just a profession; it’s a promise — a promise to help every person live life to their fullest potential.”
Srinivas University celebrates Occupational Therapy Day on October 27, and as part of this initiative, the institute is offering free Occupational Therapy treatment for people of all ages, inviting the community to experience the benefits of OT and take the first step toward a more independent, fulfilling life.