A Survey on Driving in Clients With Mental Health Disorders

Few studies have explored driving issues in adult mental health. In this pilot study, 48 drivers were compared to 24 participants who had ceased driving, on their clinical and driving characteristics. Driving-related services offered to them were also documented. Participants who had stopped driving were more likely to be in-patients on antipsychotic or several medications. A third of the participants reported negative effects of their illness and/or medications on driving. Psychiatrists and occupational therapists offered assessments and recommendations related to fitness to drive to 30% of their clients using complementary approaches. This survey indicates that few drivers with mental health disorders receive driving-related services. More evidence-based practice guidelines are needed.