Physical activity and mental disorders: A case–control study on attitudes, preferences and perceived barriers in Italy

Author： Carpiniello Bernardo Primavera Diego Pilu Alessandra Vaccargiu Nicola Pinna Federica

ISSN： 1360-0567

Source： Journal of Mental Health, Vol.22, Iss.6, 2013-12, pp. : 492-500

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Abstract

BackgroundMentally ill people experience greater difficulty than the general population in exercising regularly.AimsWe aimed to evaluate attitudes displayed and barriers perceived towards physical activity in a sample of psychiatric patients.MethodsA total of 138 (M = 48, F = 90) patients attending a community mental health centre were compared with a control group made up of 138 subjects not affected by mental disorders matched for gender, mean age and education. Both groups underwent a self-administered questionnaire.ResultsPatients reported a more sedentary lifestyle in terms of weekly physical activities and daily hours of exercise; their body mass index (BMI) was significantly higher compared with the BMI of controls (p < 0.002); the mentally ill more frequently reported tiredness (p < 0.001), scarce motivation (p < 0.001) and the illness itself (p = 0.01) as barriers to physical activity; moreover, stating how feeling sad or “distressed” reduced their propensity to physical exercise (p = 0.002). A higher number of patients (p < 0.0001) reported little or no motivation for physical activity, and the experiencing of scarce enjoyment (p < 0.001).ConclusionsA series of barriers may limit regular physical activity in subjects affected by mental disorders; these barriers should be taken into account and appropriately addressed.