Participants' Voices From Within a Healthy Lifestyle Group

Abstract

Weight gain is a serious health concern. People with mental illnesses are at increased risk of weight gain. The primary treatment is lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity and dietary changes. This qualitative study explored the experience of people with schizophrenia who participated in a healthy lifestyle program. Four themes were identified. The findings indicate that benefits of the program were more than physical health improvements and included regular access to a health professional, gaining social relationships, and a sense of belonging. Future recommendations include retaining a group structure in lifestyle interventions to facilitate these additional benefits.