This study explores the benefits of walking among people with major mental disorders who live in the community. Major mental disorders include schizophrenia, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The population of focus for this study is individuals with these disorders served by the public health system. The authors suggest ways in which professionals serving this demographic can support and encourage walking behavior in their patients. This resource is valuable for care practitioners and community-based organizations that serve individuals in this population.
People with major mental disorders often experience functional challenges that make it difficult to lead a healthy life. This population also experiences high levels of respiratory disease, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. A sedentary lifestyle compounds these issues and the cognitive performance of people diagnosed with a major mental disorder. Considering the rates of poverty in this community, walking is an ideal strategy for improving the mental and physical health of these individuals. It requires no special equipment and can support other healthy living habits, making it suitable for people who struggle to maintain health-conscious practices.
Published to the Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services in 2017.
Citation
Swarbrick, M., Nemec, P. B., Brandow, C. L., & Spagnolo, A. (2018). Strategies to promote walking among community-dwelling individuals with major mental disorders. Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(3), 25-32. https://doi.org/10.3928/02793695-20171205-01
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