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

Abstract

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.

Perceptions of abused Chinese women on community-based participatory approach programme in addressing their needs

“…Exploring the perceptions from user’s perspectives is essential for understanding the effectiveness of an intervention, in congruences with the principle of CBPA, everything begins from the stakeholder’s perspectives, which is a bottom-up approach. Findings in this study are in line with current literature, showing CBPA is able to address multi-faceted needs of community stakeholders including abused women (Krieger et al, 2002 ; Poleshuck et al, 2018 ; Sims-Gould et al, 2017 ; Yoshihama et al, 2012 ; Zhou et al, 2016 ). CBPA allows researchers and service providers to engage more deeply with participants, as their needs could be addressed more effectively and their concerns could be responded more appropriately.…”

Promoting adherence to organised physical activity among socially disadvantaged older people

“…The strategies described by providers as being helpful to promoting a sense of belonging emphasise the importance of ensuring a positive and inclusive initial experience, creating a safe and stigma-free environment, and providing opportunities to forge relationships that enable participants to feel supported and valued. The primary importance of these factors has been highlighted previously in a study exploring the views of participants with major depressive disorder in relation to the features considered ideal for PA programmes (Sims-Gould et al, 2017). Other research (Belza et al, 2008;Hartley and Yeowell, 2015) has indicated the value of culturally specific programmes involving participants from similar CALD backgrounds, making it easier for participants to feel safe and comfortable when participating in organised PA.…”

Ten Research Priorities Related to Youth Sport, Physical Activity, and Health

“…Improved mental illbeing and wellbeing may be mediated through psychosocial mechanisms that result from positive social interactions, outdoor activity, or feelings of accomplishment. 94,95 There may also be behavioral mechanisms linked to improved auto-regulation or sleep patterns for those engaged regularly in sport that positively influence mental health. (94) Similarly, improved cognitive performance may be a result of complex problem solving and spatial reasoning needed during sport performance.…”