A Physical Activity Intervention in a Community Alcohol Service

Abstract

People recovering from alcohol-related or drug-related problems are often in poor physical condition and have an extremely sedentary lifestyle. This article describes a study in which an occupational therapist in a community alcohol service implemented a physical activity intervention. The aim of the intervention was for clients with substance misuse problems to increase independent physical activities, to engage more in community-based activities, to increase their awareness of the benefits of exercise and to perceive benefits in their health following the programme. Seven people attended a 6-week programme consisting of nine sessions. Each session included an exercise class and group-based physical activity counselling. Case studies for five of the participants are presented. It was shown that it is possible for an intervention combining physical activity counselling with supervised and independent exercise to have an impact on the lives of a few individuals with substance misuse problems. Four of the five participants made substantial gains in all the target areas relating to independence, integration, education and health. It was also shown that it is feasible for an occupational therapist to play a pivotal role in promoting fitness-oriented activities for those with substance misuse problems. Controlled studies are required with larger samples, longer follow-up periods and the comparison of different intervention elements.

The meanings of outdoor physical activity for parentally bereaved young people in the United Kingdom: insights from an ethnographic study

“…While there is a paucity of literature addressing the role of physical activity as a vehicle for helping bereaved children, there is a large body of research extolling the psychological health benefits of exercise. Studies have suggested that physical activity can enhance selfesteem (Fox, 2000), contribute to positive affect and mood (Biddle & Mutrie, 2001), help improve sleep (Arakawa et al, 2002;Morgan, 2003), reduce depression (Mutrie, 2000), help to manage the symptoms associated with schizophrenia (Carter-Morris & Faulkner, 2003), reduce stress (Read, Kahler, & Stephenson, 2001) and enhance body image (Ussher et al, 2000). Such evidence is particularly pertinent when we consider that bereaved children are more likely than other children to experience higher levels of depression, an increase in health problems and accidents, more anxiety and fear, lower self-esteem, a destructive belief that all events in their lives are beyond their control and less optimism about succeeding later in life (Worden, 1996;Schuurman, 2003).…”

Psychosocial Occupational Therapy Interventions for Substance-Use Disorders: A Narrative Review

“…Seven involved clients seeking treatment through a type of residential program (e.g., supportive housing community, halfway house, recovery center; Boisvert, 2004;Boisvert, Martin, Grosek, & Clarie, 2008;Darko-Mensah, 2011;Martin, Bliven, & Boisvert, 2008;Peloquin, 2010;Ussher, McCusker, Morrow, & Donaghy, 2000;White, 2007), while the other three treatment settings involved an outpatient psychiatric facility (Cardinale, Malacari, Broggi, Savignano, & Fisher, 2014), an inpatient forensic psychiatric ward (Stevens, Redfearn, & Tse, 2003), and a prison (Tayer, 2004). Study size varied (n ¼ 1 to 75), along with length, frequency, and duration of intervention.…”

“…All studies focused on identifying life skill needs of participants to remain abstinent from their substance of choice, providing individuals with personal tools to prevent relapse (Boisvert, 2004;Boisvert et al, 2008;Cardinale et al, 2014;Darko-Mensah, 2011;Martin et al, 2008;Peloquin, 2010;Stevens et al, 2003;Tayer, 2004;Ussher et al, 2000;White, 2007). Of these, three reported additional treatment therapies (e.g., 12-step programs, individual counseling, and mental health services) being provided to clients at the stated facility, while simultaneously receiving occupational therapy treatment (Boisvert, 2004;Boisvert et al, 2008;Peloquin, 2010).…”

“…Researchers presented results through five case studies due to two participants inadequately completing assessments. These results were mixed, with patients stating progress toward their goals, partial satisfaction, and one participant reporting a negative trend in data post-intervention (Ussher et al, 2000).…”

“…Exercise as an intervention was assessed by Ussher et al (2000). The authors stated that many exercise regimens can fail due to lack of appropriateness and individualization for each client.…”