A qualitative analysis of facilitators and barriers to physical activity among patients with moderate mental disorders

Denise van Rijen*, Gill A. Ten Hoor

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journal(Systematic) Review article peer-review

Abstract

Aim: The current study aims to qualitatively identify determinants, barriers and facilitators of physical activity among a population with mental health disorders.

Subject and methods: Seventeen participants with moderate mental disorders were recruited. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to identify physical activity facilitators and barriers. Data were organized and analysed in ATLAS.ti, mainly based on a generic qualitative research approach.

Results: Most participants found physical activity important and expressed a positive attitude towards it. In general, higher self-efficacy and more social support were beneficial for participants' physical activity levels. Reasons/facilitating factors to be more physically active were: having fun, good weather, progress, routine, self-compassion and a stimulating environment. Barriers were not having fun, being busy, mental complaints, lack of energy, procrastination and physical complaints.

Conclusion: Future interventions could promote physical activity among people with moderate mental disorders to help them identify and overcome barriers. The newly identified determinant 'self-compassion' could be an interesting target for promoting physical activity in this group of people with moderate mental disorders.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1401-1416
Number of pages16
JournalJournal of Public Health
Volume31
Issue number9
Early online date1 Jun 2022
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2023

Keywords

  • ACTIVITY INTERVENTIONS
  • Barriers
  • Behaviour change theories
  • DETERMINANTS
  • Determinants
  • EXERCISE
  • Facilitators
  • HEALTH
  • ILLNESS
  • MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER
  • Mental disorders
  • PARTICIPATION
  • PEOPLE
  • Physical activity
  • SEDENTARY BEHAVIOR
  • SELF-DETERMINATION THEORY

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