Physical activity programs and severe mental illness: A case study of an Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) team

Context: As a therapeutic intervention, physical activity has the potential to improve the quality of life of individuals with severe mental illnesses.
Objectives: The goal of this case study was to conduct an in-depth examination of an individualized physical activity program for patients suffering from severe mental illnesses that was implemented by an Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) team in Ottawa, Canada.
Method: Using a mixed-methods design, physical health parameters were measured over a nine-month period and semi-structured interviews were conducted with fourteen patients and five staff members.
Results: The findings showed a significant reduction in weight following the evaluation period, as well as positive effects in terms of patients’ self-esteem, autonomy, and socialization. The quality of the therapeutic relationship, the elimination of barriers, and the continued involvement of staff members were some of the key characteristics that led to the program’s success.
Discussion/conclusion: These promising results are an indication of the feasibility of this type of intervention among patients with severe mental illnesses as a therapeutic approach to improve their quality of life and support their recovery and social integration.