Understanding the psychosocial processes of physical activity for individuals with severe mental illness: A meta-ethnography

Abstract

First paragraph: Physical activity can benefit individuals with severe mental illness (SMI) (Richardson et al., 2005). The benefits of physical activity for individuals with SMI are threefold: psychological, social and physical. Psychologically, patients can experience mood elevating effects, reduced anxiety, improved concentration, increased self-esteem and reduced psychiatric symptoms like voices (Faulkner & Biddle, 1999). Socially, co-patients in the physical activity setting can motivate, support and encourage interaction (Fogarty & Happell, 2005), facilitating the development of a positive social identity. Physically, patients can combat a significant side effect of anti-psychotic medication such as weight loss (Faulkner et al., 2003).