Exploring variability and perceptions of lifestyle physical activity among individuals with severe and enduring mental health problems: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background: While individuals with severe and enduring mental illness (SEMI) may be more sedentary than the general population little is known about what influences physical activity broadly (not just structured programmes) and how best to develop effective community-based interventions.

Aims: The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine the idiographic determinants of community-based lifestyle physical activity to inform the design of interventions among people with SEMI.

Methods: Sixteen individuals with SEMI, attending a community support centre, participated in semi-structured interviews focusing on past and present behavioural assessment, knowledge and attitudes, and sources of support to be physically active.

Results: Among the more active individuals, walking was part of a regular routine, involving considerable distances. Overall, most were ambivalent about becoming more active, receiving little or no support to do more. A complex variety of environmental, personal and psycho-social factors interacted to influence behaviour.

Discussion: Individuals with SEMI are receptive toward receiving more support to be physically active and in increasing their levels of physical activity. Physical activity interventions that address ambivalence, alleviate concerns regarding social evaluation, and target increases in walking need development and evaluation.

Declaration of interest: None.

Keywords:

• Physical activity
• mental health
• exercise