Individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) have significantly greater risk of comorbid health problems and premature death, and there is need for interventions that can improve physical fitness and overall health. Accordingly, a study was conducted which evaluated the effectiveness of a structured physical exercise program that was developed as part of a wellness project in an ICCD Certified Clubhouse. Seventeen clubhouse members completed a 16-week program with evidence of significant improvement in aerobic capacity and perceived mental health as well as positive trends in perceived improvements in physical and social functioning. Qualitative data indicated satisfaction with the program by all participants, especially the value of group support, while also highlighting the need for greater attention to nutrition as part of a future program. Moreover, the study found that a structured exercise program can be successfully provided to members of an ICCD Certified Clubhouse.

Individuals with severe physical disability are at high risk for psychological problems, and growing evidence suggests a lack of adequate mental health services for this population. To shed light on this problem, a large, multiphase survey was conducted, including samples of individuals with physical disability, consumer advocates, rehabilitation and mental health administrators, rehabilitation counselors, and mental health practitioners. This article reports the extent to which respondents from each sample considered 10 variables as barriers to provision of mental health services to individuals with severe physical disability. Results indicate that individuals with severe physical disability are an underserved group and that there are several major barriers to adequate mental health services for this population. Conclusions and recommendations are made regarding policy and program development and training of professionals.

A survey was designed to obtain information concerning ways clubhouses affiliated with the International Center for Clubhouse Development (ICCD) promote practices that improve the physical health of members. This study examined perceptions of the need for health promotion interventions, current and planned health promotion practices, and barriers to change and program development. The mean number of health promotion activities ICCD clubhouses (N = 219) report providing was 5.24, SD = 2.42, range = 1 to 10. Despite barriers (e.g., cost), results indicate that every clubhouse responding to this survey offers at least one health promotion activity.

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