Date
Tuesday
Apr

April 1-30

Occupational Therapy Month

This Occupational Therapy Month, join us to recognize and celebrate the amazing work of occupational therapists in improving lives!

Yearly Date
April 1
Type
Month

Introduction

It's time to recognize the hard work of occupational therapists and commemorate Occupational Therapy Month on April 1! This month is dedicated to highlighting the important role that occupational therapists play in helping people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds achieve their goals. Occupational therapy has been around for centuries but only formally became an established profession in 1920. Since then, it has evolved into a highly specialized field with practitioners working in a variety of settings including hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and more. So let's celebrate this month by raising awareness about the power of occupational therapy and showing our appreciation for those who dedicate their lives to helping others!

Occupational Therapy Month Timeline

1917
Founding of AOTA
The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) was established, providing a foundation for occupational therapy as a profession.
1920
Occupational Therapy Profession Recognition
Occupational therapy formally became an established profession in the United States.
1943
World War II Impact
In response to World War II, occupational therapy expanded its focus to help rehabilitate war veterans.
1983
Celebrating OT Month
The AOTA officially recognized April as Occupational Therapy Month to raise awareness and recognize professionals in the field.
2000s
Expanded Scope of Practice
The occupational therapy field expanded to cover mental and physical health, habilitation, rehabilitation, prevention, health maintenance, and more.

How to Celebrate Occupational Therapy Month

1

Learn about Occupational Therapy

Take some time to learn about the history and practice of occupational therapy. Read articles or watch videos about how occupational therapists help people reach their goals and improve their quality of life.

2

Share your experiences

If you or a loved one have benefited from occupational therapy, consider sharing your story with others. Write a blog post, create a video, or talk to friends, family, and colleagues about the positive impact occupational therapy has had on you.

3

Volunteer with an OT organization

Help out with a local or national organization that promotes occupational therapy. You can volunteer your time or donate money to these organizations in order to help spread awareness and provide resources for those who need it.

4

Attend an OT event

Look for local events related to occupational therapy. Many cities have conferences and seminars that are open to the public where you can learn more about the profession and meet practitioners and other professionals in the field.

5

Spread the word

Share your favorite resources or articles about occupational therapy with your friends, family, and colleagues. Talk about how it can help people and encourage them to learn more about it.

Why Occupational Therapy Month is Important

A

Occupational therapy helps people live more independently

Occupational therapists help persons with disabilities and other conditions to develop, maintain, and improve their ability to perform activities of daily life. With the help of occupational therapy, many individuals are able to live more independent lives and reach their fullest potential.

B

Occupational therapy improves physical and mental health

Occupational therapy can play an important role in improving physical and mental health. The activities used in occupational therapy sessions can help strengthen muscles, increase range of motion, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. These activities can also help build self-confidence and self-esteem.

C

Occupational therapy promotes socialization and engagement

In addition to providing physical benefits, occupational therapy encourages socialization, engagement, and communication. Through the use of purposeful activities, occupational therapy is meant to give individuals the opportunity to interact with their peers as well as form meaningful connections with others in order to improve overall wellbeing.

Occupational Therapy Month Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Mar 31
Friday
2024
Mar 31
Sunday
2025
Mar 31
Monday
2026
Mar 31
Tuesday
2027
Mar 31
Wednesday