Sensory modulation interventions have proven effective for supporting individuals with mental health difficulties to develop self-regulation skills. Sensory rooms, therapeutic spaces containing equipment to promote sensory modulation, are used to manage distressed behaviours including violence, aggression and self-harm. There is a high prevalence of the former in acute inpatient mental health populations which are often managed with restrictive practices including chemical and/or physical intervention and seclusion. The evidence base for the positive impact of sensory modulation interventions on emotional wellbeing is promising and therefore, this study aimed to build upon previous literature by evaluating the use of a sensory room in a female acute inpatient mental health setting from staff and patient perspectives using a qualitative design. Data were collected from 20 participants (11 staff and 9 patients). Participants completed a self-reported open-ended questionnaire exploring their experiences of using the sensory room, equipment used, barriers and facilitators to access, and implications for restrictive practices. The data were analysed using thematic analysis and the main themes that emerged were: Sensory Rooms for Safe, Calming, and Therapeutic Patient Spaces, Compassionate Sensory Interventions and Addressing Barriers and Facilitators to Sensory Room Access. The sensory room has been positively received by both staff and patients, providing a calming space that supports emotional regulation and de-escalation. However, to fully optimise its use, accessibility must be addressed, and further research is required.
Read full abstract