The benefits of sensory modulation on levels of distress for consumers in a mental health emergency setting

Abstract

Objectives: This paper reports a pilot study exploring the benefits of offering sensory modulation within a mental health emergency setting for consumers experiencing distress during a psychiatric presentation.

Methods: Seventy-four consumers with a mental health presentation reported on their sensory modulation use experiences during their stay in a South Australian tertiary teaching hospital emergency department. An evaluation form was used to document use of items, self-reported distress pre and post sensory modulation use, and other consumer experiences.

Results: Consumers used between one and six sensory items for a median duration of 45 min. There was a statistically significant reduction ( t(73) = 15.83, p < .001) in self-reported distress post sensory modulation use, and consumers also reported that use was helpful, distracting, calming and assisted in managing negative emotions and thoughts.

Conclusions: The results demonstrate the potential value of sensory-based interventions in reducing behavioural and emotional dysregulation in an emergency setting whilst also promoting consumer self-management strategies.

Keywords: distress; emergency department; least restrictive practice; mental health; sensory modulation.