Jump step - a community based participatory approach to physical activity & mental wellness

BMC Psychiatry

Research Article

Karim Khan¹  Joanie Sims-Gould²  Ronald Remick³  Sara Vazirian⁴  Neville Li⁴ 

[1] Department of Family Practice, University of British Columbia, 5950 University Blvd, V6T 1Z3, Vancouver, BC, Canada;Department of Family Practice, University of British Columbia, 793-2635 Laurel Street, V5Z 1M9, Vancouver, BC, Canada;Mood Disorders Association of BC, 1450 - 605 Robson Street, V6B 5J3, Vancouver, BC, Canada;University of British Columbia, Center for Hip Health and Mobility, 2635 Laurel Street, V5Z 1M9, Vancouver, BC, Canada;

关键词: Physical activity;    Depression;    Anxiety;    Mental health;    Group medical visits;    Exercise;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s12888-017-1476-y

 received in 2017-02-17, accepted in 2017-08-22,  发布年份 2017

来源: Springer

【 摘 要 】

BackgroundThere is a physical inactivity pandemic around the world despite the known benefits of engaging in physical activity. This is true for individuals who would receive notable benefits from physical activity, in particular those with mood disorders. In this study, we explored the factors that facilitate and impede engagement in physical activity for individuals with a mood disorder. The intent was to understand the key features of a community based physical activity program for these individuals.MethodsWe recruited and interviewed 24 participants older than 18 with Major Depressive Disorder or Bipolar II. The interviews were conducted by peer researchers. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed using NVivo 10™. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data.ResultsThe facilitators to physical activity include being socially connected with family and friends, building a routine in daily life, and exposure to nature. The barriers to physical activity include the inability to build a routine owing to a mood disorder, and high cost. The ideal exercise program comprises a variety of light-to-moderate activities, offers the opportunity to connect with other participants with a mood disorder, and brings participants to nature. The average age of our participants was 52 which could have influenced the preferred level of intensity.ConclusionThe individuals in this study felt that the key features of a physical activity program for individuals with a mood disorder must utilize a social network approach, take into account the preferences of potential participants, and incorporate nature (both green and blue spaces) as a health promotion resource.

【 授权许可】

CC BY   
© The Author(s). 2017