Is Social Participation Really an “Occupation”?
When most people hear the word “occupation,” they think of work or a job. But in occupational therapy, “occupation” means any meaningful activity that supports your health, well-being, and sense of purpose.
So yes—social participation is an occupation.
For many of us, life feels brighter and more grounded when we find spaces where we feel accepted, meaningful, and authentic. On the other hand, loneliness and isolation can take a real toll on both physical and mental health. The good news is that simple, intentional connections (small moments of reaching out) can shift how we feel.
Research continues to affirm this: strong social ties reduce loneliness and improve health outcomes (Collins et al., 2020; Holt-Lunstad, 2018). For occupational therapists, this is important work. Supporting clients to build routines that include authentic social participation is part of holistic wellness. I often collaborate with clients on ways to bring community connection into their daily lives.
My Personal Journey With Connection
In 2021, I moved into a one-bedroom apartment with a limited social circle. Like many people, I found myself searching for ways to feel connected during a season of disconnection and loneliness. That’s when I started experimenting with different ways of engaging with my community.
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Chicago Community Sports:
I joined a fall softball league and later signed up for bowling. Both boosted my mental health and helped me meet new people. One evening while eating dinner near the beach, I was invited to sub in a volleyball game. I said “heck yeah,” and it became one of those unexpected moments of joy and connection.
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Brewery & Book Ritual:
On my days off, I’d sit at a local brewery with a book. Sometimes I kept to myself, sometimes I chatted with staff. One night, I was invited to play in a pool tournament. I had never played before, but I said yes. That simple choice turned into joining a drop-in pool league, being added to a group chat, and creating friendships that remain important to me to this day. Some of those friends will even be at my wedding.
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Everyday Neighborhood Moments:
Living next to a sushi restaurant, a simple daily wave with the staff became a ritual that makes picking up takeout feel more connected. At my nail salon, casual conversations grew into a friendship, so we swap language lessons (American Sign Language for Mongolian), celebrate birthdays, and catch up on life whenever I stop in.
- If I’ve been gone too long, I’m welcomed with, “We were just thinking about you—we wondered where you were!” And at one of my favorite patio restaurants, a playful moment turned into connection when I invited a staff member to join my fiancé and me for a round of Bananagrams after their shift.
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Apartment Building Connections:
In my apartment building, I’ve built friendships through laundry room chats, plant watering, cat sitting, and even baking cookies for neighbors during the holidays. One of the most meaningful connections has been with my elderly neighbor, a beloved neighborhood celebrity—spunky, personable, and always out walking her little dog.
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Over time, our small greetings grew into genuine trust. When her dog became ill, she asked me to help with his medication, and after he passed, she welcomed me into her grief. Though it was a painful moment, it felt like a profound honor to be present with her.
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Intentional Gatherings:
Hosting gatherings has also been a beautiful way to create connection. From game nights and Bob Ross paint nights to charcuterie boards, sports watch parties, and even an annual birthday celebration for my cat, Mango, these intentional moments of friendship have created lasting memories.
Lessons Learned
Through both personal and professional experiences, I’ve learned that:
- Sticking your neck out can make a big difference.
- Most people are nervous to connect, but small gestures (a smile, wave, or hello) can lower the walls and create belonging.
- Risk vs. reward: rejection is possible, but connection is far more likely.
Why This Matters in Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy recognizes nine distinct “occupations” that support daily life, and social participation is one of them (Cowen et al., 2024).
Social participation matters because it shapes how we experience meaning and belonging in the world.
- Activities that foster connection are proven to reduce loneliness and isolation.
- Environments matter! Intentional spaces can encourage and strengthen social ties.
- Because OTs work across diverse health and social care settings, they are uniquely positioned to support people navigating social isolation and loneliness.
I see this regularly in my work. Many clients feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of how to create social ties that feel authentic. Together, we explore practical ways to weave meaningful community engagement into daily routines, whether that’s joining a local group, reconnecting with friends, or practicing micro-interactions like greeting a neighbor or waving to someone on your block.
Final Thoughts
Connection is a vital part of well-being. It doesn’t always have to look big or structured. Sometimes, it’s the simple moments that shift how we feel most deeply. Whether through community sports, neighborhood rituals, or hosting small gatherings, belonging can grow in both intentional and unexpected places.
In occupational therapy, supporting social participation means helping people discover the connections that bring them joy, meaning, and authenticity. At Thrive Ahead Co., we believe that connection is not only possible, it’s essential. And sometimes, it all begins with a smile, a wave, or a simple “yes” to an unexpected invitation.
Local Resources
Check out some local resources to support you get started.
Chicago Sport and Social
https://chicagosocial.com/
Simply Social Sports
https://s3leagues.com/
Class Pass (Group Fitness)
https://classpass.com/
Run Clubs
https://cemevent.com/get-involved/chicago-area-run-walk-clubs/
Trash People
https://www.trashpeople.org/
Hot Potato Hearts
https://www.hotpotatohearts.com/
Chicago Craft Club
https://www.chicagocraft.club/
More About the Author
Caitlyn Fraser is licensed Occupational Therapist. She is dedicated to helping individuals navigate the unique challenges of living with ADHD and other forms of neurodiversity. Her approach is rooted in understanding each client’s unique identity and goals, providing clarity, strength, and empowerment along their journey.
With a strong background in both acute care and adapted education, Caitlyn brings extensive experience in assessing needs, developing personalized treatment plans, and collaborating closely with clients to track progress. She understands the importance of teamwork, whether working alongside clinical professionals or directly supporting individuals, to ensure a transformative and well-supported experience.
Ready to find your perfect fit and start your wellness journey today? Schedule A Consultation Call Today Here
Meet the Founder
Jenn is the amazing founder behind Thrive Ahead Co. and is a licensed clinical professional counselor. Currently, she is accepting clients for her career counseling services. Jenn is an active guide for her clients, is involved, approachable and attentive.
“You can bet that in a tough session, we’ll still find ways to connect with humor as I truly believe when used well it’s one of the most integrating skills we can have, to know and hold this lightness at the same time as the seriousness and even pain that life brings us.” Schedule A Consultation Call Today Here
social participation in occupational therapy, connection, social participation
References
Collins, T., Davys, D., Martin, R., Russell, R., & Kenney, C. (2020). Occupational therapy, loneliness and social isolation: A thematic review of the literature. International Journal of Therapy and Rehabilitation, 27(10), 1–23. https://doi.org/10.12968/ijtr.2020.0105
Cowen, K., Collins, T., Carr, S., & Wilson Menzfeld, G. (2024). The role of occupational therapy in community development to combat social isolation and loneliness. British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 87(7), 434–442. https://doi.org/10.1177/03080226241239564
Holt-Lunstad, J. (2018). Why social relationships are important for physical health: A systems approach to understanding and modifying risk and protection. Annual Review of Psychology, 69, 437–458. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-psych-122216-011902
