The Effect of Exercise on Psychological and Physical Health Outcomes: Preliminary Results from a Norwegian Forensic Hospital
Abstract
<h4>ABSTRACT</h4> <p>People with mental illness are more likely to experience physical health problems and die prematurely than are comparable populations. This study evaluated whether exercise, when offered as part of routine treatment, affects the psychological and physical health of patients in a high-secure forensic unit in Norway. Thirteen patients completed a structured exercise program lasting 8 to 12 weeks. After completion of the program, resting heart rate and systolic blood pressure after treadmill testing were significantly improved. In addition, patients’ subjective feelings of well-being and safety improved significantly. This study shows that structured exercise is possible to perform with noticeable improvements and low attrition among patients with complex conditions. Implications for future studies and practice are discussed.</p> <h4>ABOUT THE AUTHORS</h4> <p>Ms. Tetlie is Occupational Therapist, Dr. Eik-Nes is Vicarious Attending Psychiatrist, Dr. Palmstierna is Senior Physician and Associate Professor, and Dr. Nøttestad is Head of Research Department, St. Olavs University Hospital, Department Brøset, Center for Research and Education in Forensic Psychiatry, Trondheim, Norway. Dr. Callaghan is Professor of Mental Health Nursing, School of Nursing, University of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, Nottingham, United Kingdom. Dr. Nøttestad is also Assistant Professor, Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.</p> <p>The authors disclose that they have no significant financial interests in any product or class of products discussed directly or indirectly in this activity, including research support.</p> <p>Address correspondence to Trine Tetlie, Occupational Therapist, St. Olavs University Hospital, Forensic Department, Gildheimsvegen 27 B, 7044 Trondheim, Norway; e-mail: <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>.</p>
