More than 100 people attended a mental health occupational therapy event at the Great Hall in Downshire Hospital, Downpatrick. The gathering brought together service users, staff and partners to focus on sensory approaches to wellbeing.

Interactive activities offered throughout the day included a mindfulness walk in the hospital's Victorian gardens, forest therapy sessions, sensory circuits, gym ball exercises and workshops on trauma and sensory processing. Information stalls were also available.

Clare Sheridan-Henry, mental health occupational therapist lead for the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, explained that sensory needs and environment directly influence daily functioning and recovery. She said occupational therapy helps individuals reach an optimal state for learning and healing.

Sheridan-Henry reported that participants responded positively, particularly to the practical sensory workshops, and that many took the opportunity to visit the stalls at their own pace.