An occupational perspective of youth positive mental health: A critical review

Introduction: The experience of youth positive mental health has attracted limited research interest, despite healthcare shifting to a preventative approach, promoting health and wellbeing rather than focusing on illness. The aim of this critical review was to develop an understanding of youth positive mental health from an occupational perspective. Method: Eight databases were searched and findings from each of the 11 relevant studies were critically reviewed and analysed using the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance and Engagement (CMOP-E). The three core elements of the CMOP-E were used as themes: personal factors, environment and occupation. Findings: Each of the core components of the CMOP-E were identified as influencing youth positive mental health. The importance of supportive social environments and social occupations were particularly prevalent. Deeper understandings of the influence spirituality and institutional environments have on positive mental health for youth are required. Conclusion: Youth positive mental health is a complex concept and requires the consideration of personal, environmental and occupational factors. Gaps identified included limited evidence of how young people engaged in mental health services perceive positive mental health. To gain a deeper understanding of positive youth mental health, future research needs to be conducted to obtain the perspective of young people.