Importance: This study determines whether occupational therapy interventions are effective in increasing self-efficacy related to independence skills in individuals with severe mental illness (SMI). Objective: Develop and implement a program for adults with SMI and evaluate its effectiveness in improving self-efficacy related to independent health management skills. Design: The study used a mixed methods approach with a qualitative/descriptive process through direct observation, interviews, and pre/post quantitative measures. Assessments were given before and after the implementation of the 8-week program. Setting: This study took place at Community Friendship Incorporated (CFI) Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) group day program. CFI is a nonprofit psychiatric rehabilitation organization located in Atlanta, Georgia. Participants: Participants were recruited from participants of the CFI PSR Program who meet the inclusion criteria: adults (18+), diagnosed with a SMI, and able to provide informed consent. Eligible participants were selected on volunteer basis. (n=11) Intervention: 4 independence skills modules were implemented over 8 weeks. Modules addressed health literacy, chronic illness management, engaging in meaningful activities, and utilizing community resources. Sessions included interactive activities, discussion/reflection, and encouraging application of program skills to daily life. Outcomes and Measures: Modified Chronic Disease Self-Efficacy Scale, qualitative thematic analysis of field observations and staff/participant feedback with Taguette software Results: Analysis indicated a statistically significant increase in self-efficacy scores following participation in the 8-week independence skills program (p = 0.003). Conclusions and Relevance: Occupational Therapy Independence Skills programs are an effective way to increase self-efficacy related to health management in adults with SMI.

Plain-Language Summary: This study was done to see if an occupational therapy group program could help adults with severe mental illness feel more confident managing their health using daily life skills. The program lasted 8 weeks and taught skills related to understanding health information, managing symptoms and medications, doing meaningful daily activities, and finding and using community resources. The study found that participants felt more confident in their ability to manage their health and independence after completing the program. This means that occupational therapy skill-building groups can help people with severe mental illness feel more capable, independent, and in control of their daily lives. These results are important for the field of occupational therapy because they show that structured independence skills programs can improve self-efficacy and health management. This supports the role of occupational therapy in mental health programs and community rehabilitation settings.