Exercise as an intervention for first-episode psychosis: a feasibility study

Exercise4Psychosis: A randomised control trial assessing the effect of moderate-to-vigorous exercise on inflammatory biomarkers and negative symptom profiles in men with first-episode psychosis

INTRODUCTION

First-Episode Psychosis (FEP) is a devastating mental health condition that commonly emerges during early adulthood, and is characterised by a disconnect in perceptions of reality. Current evidence suggests that inflammation and perturbed immune responses are involved in the pathology of FEP and may be associated specifically with negative symptoms. Exercise training is a potent anti-inflammatory stimulus that can reduce persistent inflammation, and can improve mood profiles in general populations. Therefore, exercise may represent a novel adjunct therapy for FEP. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of exercise on biomarkers of inflammation, negative symptoms of psychosis, and physiological health markers in FEP.

METHODS

Seventeen young males (26.67 ± 6.64 years) were recruited from Birmingham Early Intervention in Psychosis Services and randomised to a 6-week exercise programme consisting of two-to-three sessions per week that targeted 60-70 % heart-rate max (HRMax), or a treatment as usual (TAU) condition. Immune T-helper (Th-) cell phenotypes and cytokines, symptom severity, functional wellbeing, and cognition were assessed before and after 6-weeks of regular exercise.

RESULTS

Participants in the exercise group (n = 10) achieved 81.11 % attendance to the intervention, with an average exercise intensity of 67.54 % ± 7.75 % HRMax. This led to favourable changes in immune cell phenotypes, and a significant reduction in the Th1:Th2 ratio (-3.86 %) compared to the TAU group (p = 0.014). After the exercise intervention, there was also a significant reduction in plasma IL-6 concentration (-22.17 %) when compared to the TAU group (p = 0.006). IL-8, and IL-10 did not show statistically significant differences between the groups after exercise. Symptomatically, there was a significant reduction in negative symptoms after exercise (-13.54 %, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, (PANSS) Negative) when compared to the TAU group (p = 0.008). There were no significant change in positive or general symptoms, functional outcomes, or cognition (all p > 0.05).

DISCUSSION

Regular moderate-to-vigorous physical activity is feasible and attainable in clinical populations. Exercise represents a physiological tool that is capable of causing significant inflammatory biomarker change and concomitant symptom improvements in FEP cohorts, and may be useful for treatment of symptom profiles that are not targeted by currently prescribed antipsychotic medication.

Factors associated with recovery during schizophrenia and related disorders: A review of meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The spectrum of schizophrenia disorders (SSD) is a severe mental disorder. It is one of the main medical causes of disability that generates high health and social costs.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the factors associated with clinical recovery (CR) (symptomatic remission-SR and functional recovery-FR) and personal recovery (PR) in people diagnosed with SSD.

METHODS

14 meta-analyses focused on recovery were reviewed following the PRISMA model statements. 95 % of CI was established.

RESULTS

Shorter Duration of Untreated Psychosis (Zr = 0.24, [0.17, 0.30]) and total Duration of Untreated Illness (Zr = 0.34, [0.20, 0.48]) were related to greater SR and general functioning, respectively. Resilience was the variable with the greatest effect on FR (Zr = 0.67, [0.63, 0.71]). Premorbid adjustment (Zr = 0.34, [0.18, 0.49]) and physical intervention (Zr = 0.71, [0.55, 0.86]) had the greatest effect on occupational and social functioning, respectively. Less severe affective symptoms were related to greater PR (Zr = 0.46, [0.42, 0.50]). There are differences between affective SR and the other types of SR (Zr(SR-A - SR-) = 0.13, Qb = 6.51, p = 0.011), (Zr(SR-A - SR+) = 0.20, Qb = 8.52, p = 0.004), (Zr(SR-A - SR) = 0.18, Qb = 19.29, p = 0.0001). In all, resilience was associated with greater recovery (Zr = 0.67, [0.53, 0.80]), with the global effect being greater on PR than on CR (Zr(PR-CR) = 0.07, Qb = 3.45, p = 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Resilience was the variable most strongly associated with recovery. Symptomatic or functional improvement obtained less statistical weight.

Exercise or mind-body exercises for psychiatry symptoms and quality of life in schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders: an overview of systematic reviews with meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This overview of systematic reviews with meta-analysis aimed to summarize the effects of exercise, regular physical activity, and mind-body exercises on negative symptoms, depression symptoms, and quality of life in schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The CINAHL, Embase, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and the Cochrane Library databases were searched up to November 10, 2023. AMSTAR 2 was used and the overlap between reviews was calculated.

RESULTS

Eighteen reviews were included. No reviews meta-analyzed regular physical activity. Aerobic exercise may be more effective than yoga, treatment-as-usual, or multiple controls for reducing negative symptoms. Tai chi may be more effective than multiple controls for decreasing negative symptoms. Aerobic exercise or multimodal exercise programs may be more effective than multiple controls for reducing depression symptoms. Yoga may be more effective than waitlist for decreasing depression symptoms. Aerobic exercise may be more effective than multiple controls for improving quality of life. Yoga may be more effective than treatment-as-usual for improving quality of life. The rest of the meta-analyses found no differences between groups or combined different types of interventions in their meta-analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite these results, important methodological concerns were detected that precluded us from making sound clinical recommendations.

PROTOCOL REGISTRATION

https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/7V5QZ.

Experiences with physical activity, health and well-being among young adults with serious mental illness

PURPOSE

To explore how young adults with serious mental illness (SMI) experience physical activity and how these experiences influence their perceived health and well-being.

METHODS

Nine young adults with SMI who had participated in an aerobic high-intensity interval training program were interviewed in depth. The interviews were transcribed and subjected to reflexive thematic analysis.

RESULTS

The results indicated that people with SMI mainly experience physical activity as a meaningful activity that contributes to an increased sense of well-being and better health. However, to overcome various barriers, it is crucial to experience social support and encouragement. The following three main themes were identified through reflexive thematic analysis: (1) positive changes in focus and an increase in well-being occur through physical activity; (2) increased mental strength results from physical activity; and (3) a lack of support and feelings of safety prevent physical activity.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that adapted physical activity is an important resistance resource that can promote stronger self-identity, increased mental well-being and social engagement and thus contribute to an improved ability to manage stressors. Furthermore, the findings reveal that to engage in physical activity and promote sustainable life changes, it is important for individuals to choose a physical activity based on personal interest and meaning.

Evaluating a pilot community-based FITMIND exercise programme for psychosis in Hong Kong

BACKGROUND

Exercise interventions can improve clinical symptoms and cognition in patients with psychosis in addition to their physical health. However, their benefits may not be maximally generalised to those who cannot access gymnasium facilities, which were commonly required previously. This study evaluated a 12-week community exercise programme named FITMIND, which aims to help patients with psychosis establish exercise habits through easy-to-learn aerobic exercise and yoga, with the support of trained volunteers.

METHOD

This study analysed the profiles of 49 patients with psychosis who were referred by the case manager of the early psychosis programme in the public hospital in Hong Kong or enrolled in the programme through the project website. The outcome measures were working memory, physical activity (PA) participation, quality of life, and mood symptoms.

RESULTS

At baseline, seven participants (14.3%) met the recommendation of the PA for severe mental illnesses. After the 12-week programme, participants demonstrated significant improvement in vigorous-intensity PA, moderate-to-vigorous PA, compliance with international guidelines for PA, and mood symptoms.

CONCLUSION

The FITMIND exercise programme is a feasible community-based intervention that can improve PA participation and mood in patients with psychosis. Further systematic studies are needed to examine the long-term beneficial effects of the programme.

Effects of exercise intervention on psychotic symptoms: A meta-analysis and hypothetical model of neurobiological mechanisms

There is conflicting evidence on the efficacy of exercise as intervention for psychosis. This article aims to analyze the effect of exercise on psychotic symptoms. A database search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, EBSCO and Cochrane CENTRAL, based on a protocol (PROSPERO: CRD42022326944). Papers available by March 2023 assessing exercise interventions in psychotic patients were included. A significant improvement was found in Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) positive symptoms (MD = -0.75 [-1.35, -0.15], p = 0.01), with large effect sizes for PANSS-negative and general symptoms (-2.14 [-3.36, -0.92]) and (-2.53 [-3.15, -1.91]), respectively. Heterogeneity was high among studies, 49 and 73% for PANSS-positive and negative symptoms, and low, 0%, for general symptoms. It was hypothesized that functioning of specific brain areas, such as the temporal lobe and hippocampus, may underlie the improvement seen with exercise. Based on neuroimaging/neurophysiology studies, we propose a neurobiological model accounting for the association between exercise and psychotic symptom improvement.

The Effects of Different Exercise Approaches on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) results in significant functional impairment. Current treatments, particularly for adults, are limited. Previous research indicates that exercise may offer an alternative approach to managing ADHD, but research into different types of exercise and adult populations is limited. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of acute exercise (aerobic cycling vs mind-body yoga exercises) on symptoms of ADHD in adults. Adults with ADHD (N = 82) and controls (N = 77) were randomly allocated to 10 min of aerobic (cycling) or mind-body (Hatha yoga) exercise. Immediately before and after exercise, participants completed the Test of Variables of Attention task, Delay Discounting Task, and Iowa Gambling Task to measure attention and impulsivity. Actigraphy measured movement frequency and intensity. Both groups showed improved temporal impulsivity post-exercise, with cycling beneficial to all, whilst yoga only benefited those with ADHD. There were no effects of exercise on attention, cognitive or motor impulsivity, or movement in those with ADHD. Exercise reduced attention and increased movement in controls. Exercise can improve temporal impulsivity in adult ADHD but did not improve other symptoms and worsened some aspects of performance in controls. Exercise interventions should be further investigated.

Implementation of physical activity interventions in a community-based youth mental healthcare service: A case study of context, strategies, and outcomes

AIMS

Physical activity interventions are recommended for community-based youth mental health services to prevent physical health disparities. Implementation is challenging, and studies focusing on the methods to achieve change are needed. This study aims to identify the context, implementation strategies, and implementation outcomes that illustrate how physical activity interventions were implemented within an early intervention service in Australia.

METHODS

A theoretically informed case study was undertaken. Data from a community-based youth mental health service that delivers an early psychosis programme were collected between July and November 2020. Three data sources were accessed (1) interviews with service managers, mental health clinicians and exercise physiologists; (2) document review of organizational policies and procedures; and (3) survey using the Program Sustainability Assessment Tool. The implementation outcomes investigated were acceptability, fidelity, penetration, and sustainability. Framework analysis was used, and a logic model developed guided by an established template, to interpret findings.

RESULTS

Forty-three contextual factors and 43 implementation strategies were identified. The data suggests that creating a new clinical team and auditing and feedback are critical for implementation. High levels of acceptability and sustainability were described, while fidelity of implementation was difficult to establish, and penetration was low.

CONCLUSIONS

The relationship between constructs suggests several mechanisms underpinned implementation. These include changing professional beliefs, establishing new organizational norms, augmenting existing work processes, and aligning physical activity with priorities of the mental healthcare system and existing work tasks. This case study provides direction for future health service planning of physical activity interventions in community-based youth mental health service.

A combined exercise and cognitive training intervention induces fronto-cingulate cortical plasticity in first-episode psychosis patients

OBJECTIVE

Schizophrenia (SZ) is characterized by neurobiological and associated cognitive and functional deficits, including pronounced cortical thinning, that lead to acute and long-term functional impairment. Research with older adults supports the role of non-pharmacological interventions, such as exercise (E) and cognitive training (CT), for cognitive impairments. This literature influenced the development of combined CT&E treatments for individuals with SZ. However, the impact of longer combined treatment duration (6 months) on neuroanatomy has yet to be explored in patients in the early course of the illness. The impact of adding exercise to cognitive training for key brain regions associated with higher-order cognition was examined here using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in first-episode psychosis (FEP) patients.

METHODS

UCLA Aftercare Research Program patients with a recent first episode of schizophrenia were randomly assigned to either combined cognitive and exercise training (CT&E) (N = 20) or cognitive training alone (CT) (N = 17) intervention. Cortical thickness was measured longitudinally and analyzed for two regions of interest using FreeSurfer.

RESULTS

Compared to patients in the CT group, those in the CT&E group demonstrated an increase in cortical thickness within the left anterior cingulate cortex over the six-month treatment period (ACC: F(1, 35) = 4.666, P < .04). Directional tendencies were similar in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC: F(1,35) = 4.132, P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that exercise and cognitive training may synergistically increase fronto-cingulate cortical thickness to mitigate progressive neural atrophy in the early course of SZ. This combined intervention appears to be a valuable adjunct to standard pharmacologic treatment in FEP patients.

Operation recovery: a feasibility study of an 8 week exercise and lifestyle programme within an Irish first episode psychosis service

Purpose

Early interventions focusing on exercise and lifestyle are important for individuals with a diagnosis of psychosis due to increased risk of poor physical health and reduced life expectancy. This study aims to test the feasibility of a multicomponent lifestyle intervention for individuals with first episode psychosis (FEP).

Design/methodology/approach

Individuals attending an Irish FEP service were invited to engage in an eight-week programme including individual and group exercise sessions, group educational sessions and one dietician consultation. Physical activity, physical health, mental health, cognition and personal goals measures were completed pre- and post-intervention and analysed using descriptive statistics. Feasibility data was collected via a non-standardised participant questionnaire and informal data on completion of measures and engagement with the programme.

Findings

Ten participants with a diagnosis of FEP completed the intervention. Participants were satisfied with the intervention and adherence rates were high for weekly individual gym sessions but lower for group exercise and education sessions. Mean time spent engaging in physical activity increased and sedentary behaviours decreased. Participants indicated increased readiness for change with 90% moving to the action or maintenance stages of change. Participants attained 74% of their personal goals. There were no changes in average body mass index, cognition or mental health. Data relating to blood pressure, blood tests and steps was missing or incomplete.

Originality/value

This study indicates an eight-week exercise and lifestyle programme is feasible and acceptable in a clinical setting. Recommendations relating to satisfaction, clinical markers and resource requirements are made for future studies.

Identifying indicators of community participation-promoting efforts within coordinated specialty care: A modified e-Delphi study of stakeholder perspectives

AIM

Community participation in occupational, social, recreational, and other domains is critically important during young adulthood. Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC) programs provide developmentally tailored care to young adults experiencing early psychosis within the United States, but little is known about the breadth of efforts to promote community participation. This study aimed to develop and evaluate indicators of these efforts based on the perspectives of a national multi-stakeholder group.

METHODS

Seventeen stakeholders (i.e., young adults with early psychosis, family members, experts by profession) participated in a modified e-Delphi study, conducted in two rounds. The purpose of round one was to generate a comprehensive list of community participation-promoting indicators. During round two, stakeholders rated the importance and feasibility of the implementation of each indicator. Descriptive statistics and percentage of agreement regarding round two ratings were assessed.

RESULTS

During round one, 186 indicators of activities and/or practices designed to promote community participation were identified; this list was reduced to 44 by eliminating redundancies or indicators not related to community participation. In round two, we found broad agreement regarding the importance, but significant variation in perceived feasibility of indicators. The highest-rated indicators in both categories pertained to staff knowledge (regarding barriers and supports to participation and the importance of participation to health) and strategies for addressing participation barriers.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is expected to facilitate the identification and development of promising CSC activities and practices designed to promote community participation among young adults while potentially also enhancing engagement in services and improving clinical outcomes.

Improving physical activity and diet in patients with severe mental disorders: Results from the LIFESTYLE multicentric, real-world randomized controlled trial

Aims of the present study are to test the efficacy of a lifestyle group intervention, compared to a brief psychoeducational intervention, on levels of physical activity and dietary habits in a real-world sample of patients with severe mental disorders. The study, funded by the Italian Ministry of Education, has been carried out in six Italian University psychiatric outpatient units. All patients were randomly assigned to the experimental or control group and were assessed through standardized assessment instruments at baseline and six months after randomization. Of the 401 recruited patients, 43.3% had a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, 29.9% of psychosis and 26.9% of major depression. Patients were mainly female (57%), with a mean age of 45.6±11.8 years. Treated patients have almost 8 times the likelihood to show an increase of the total MET (OR: 8.02; p < .001) and of the walking MET (OR: 7.68; p < .001) and are more likely to increase the weekly consumption of vegetables (OR= 1.98, p < .05) and to reduce that of junk food (OR:0.23; p < .05). The present study support the notion that patients with severe mental disorders can improve their lifestyle behaviours and that, with appropriate support, they can achieve a healthy living.

Keyworker mediated enhancement of physical health in patients with first episode psychosis: A feasibility/acceptability study

AIM

Early intervention for people experiencing first episode psychosis is a priority, and keyworkers are vital to such services. However, keyworkers' roles in addressing first episode psychosis patients' physical health are under researched. This study addresses this knowledge gap by evaluating a keyworker-mediated intervention promoting physical health among first episode psychosis patients.

METHODS

The study was informed by the Medical Research Council's Framework for Complex Interventions to Improve Health. First episode psychosis participants were recruited from three Irish mental health services. The intervention was evaluated in terms of its feasibility/acceptability.

RESULTS

Feasibility outcomes were mixed (recruitment rate = 24/68 [35.3%]; retention rate = 18/24 [75%]). The baseline sample was predominantly male (M:F ratio = 13:6; Med age = 25 y; IQR = 23-42 y). Common health issues among participants included overweightness/obesity (n = 11) and substance use (smoking/alcohol consumption [n = 19]). Participants' initial health priorities included exercising more (n = 10), improving diet (n = 6), weight loss (n = 7) and using various health/healthcare services. The intervention's acceptability was evidenced by the appreciation participants had for physical health keyworkers' support, as well as the healthy lifestyle, which the intervention promoted. Acceptability was somewhat compromised by a low-recruitment rate, variable linkages between keyworkers and general practitioners (GPs) and COVID-19 restrictions.

CONCLUSIONS

Physical health-oriented keyworker interventions for first episode psychosis patients show promise and further evaluation of such initiatives is warranted. Future interventions should be mindful of participant recruitment challenges, strategies to enhance relationships between keyworkers and GPs, and if necessary, they should mitigate COVID-19 restrictions' impacts on care.

Exercise Intervention in Individuals at Clinical High Risk for Psychosis: Benefits to Fitness, Symptoms, Hippocampal Volumes, and Functional Connectivity

BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS

Individuals at clinical high risk for psychosis (CHR-p) are less fit than nonclinical peers and show hippocampal abnormalities that relate to clinical symptoms. Exercise generates hippocampal neurogenesis that may ameliorate these hippocampal abnormalities and related cognitive/clinical symptoms. This study examines the impact of exercise on deficits in fitness, cognitive deficits, attenuated psychotic symptoms, hippocampal volumes, and hippocampal connectivity in individuals at CHR-p.

STUDY DESIGN

In a randomized controlled trial, 32 individuals at CHR-p participated in either an exercise (n = 17) or waitlist (no exercise) (n = 15) condition. All participants were sedentary at use and absent of current antipsychotic medication, psychosis diagnoses, or a substance use disorder. The participants completed a series of fitness, cognitive tasks, clinical assessments, and an MRI session preintervention and postintervention. The exercise intervention included a high-intensity interval exercise (80% of VO2max) with 1-minute high-intensity intervals (95% of VO2max) every 10 minutes) protocol twice a week over 3 months.

STUDY RESULTS

The exercise intervention was well tolerated (83.78% retention; 81.25% completion). The exercising CHR-p group showed that improved fitness (pre/post-d = 0.53), increased in cognitive performance (pre/post-d = 0.49), decrease in positive symptoms (pre/post-d = 1.12) compared with the waitlist group. Exercising individuals showed stable hippocampal volumes; waitlist CHR-p individuals showed 3.57% decreased hippocampal subfield volume. Exercising individuals showed that increased exercise-related hippocampal connectivity compared to the waitlist individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

The exercise intervention had excellent adherence, and there were clear signs of mechanism engagement. Taken together, evidence suggests that high-intensity exercise can be a beneficial therapeutic tool in the psychosis risk period.

Effect of treadmill walking for anxiety, depression and social well-being in women with diabetes type 2: A randomized controlled trial

Anxiety and depression are higher in persons with diabetes leading to poor glycaemic control and diabetes-related emotional distress. Some diabetic women do not engage in exercises perceiving it to make their diabetes worse. The researchers' objective of this treadmill walking program was to determine its effect on anxiety, depression and social well-being in women with diabetes type 2 (DT2). We randomized 49 sedentary women with DT2 into treadmill walking at moderate intensity of 40-60% of their age-adjusted maximal heart rate, three times per week on alternate days for 12 weeks. The control attended electronic lectures on diet, diabetes and mental health. The treadmill group had no adverse effects and their anxiety, depression and social well-being scores improved with no significant changes for the control. We offer women with DT2 an easy, safe indoors exercise preventing them from abuse from men, erratic drivers and extreme weather conditions with positive physiological responses.

Physical Activity, Positive and Negative Symptoms of Psychosis, and General Psychopathology among People with Psychotic Disorders: A Meta-Analysis

Objective: Existing reviews provided evidence for the associations between higher physical activity (PA) and lower negative symptoms of psychosis among people with schizophrenia. This meta-analysis goes beyond existing syntheses and investigates associations between PA, positive and negative symptoms of psychosis, as well as symptoms of general psychopathology (referring mostly to cognitive functioning) among people with schizophrenia, but also other psychotic disorders. The moderating roles of the type of diagnosis and the type of exercise intervention were explored. Methods: The study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42018118236). Six electronic databases were searched; n = 27 experimental and observational studies were included, and psychotic symptoms-related data were recorded in one direction (higher values indicate better mental health and lower symptomatology). Results: Higher levels of PA (or participating in PA interventions) were associated with better mental health, that is, lower levels of positive symptoms (all studies: r = 0.170; experimental studies: SMD = 0.677), negative symptoms (all studies: r = 0.214; experimental studies: SMD = 0.838), and general psychopathology (all studies: r = 0.451; experimental studies: SMD = 1.511). The type of diagnosis (schizophrenia vs. other psychotic disorders) did not moderate these associations. Conclusions: We found a consistent pattern of associations between higher levels of PA and lower positive, negative, and general psychopathology symptoms in people with schizophrenia and those with other psychotic disorders.

Adherence to a guided walking program with amelioration of cognitive functions in subjects with schizophrenia even during COVID-19 pandemic

Background

Aim of the study was to enrol a group of individuals with schizophrenia in a long-term moderate-intensity physical activity program and to evaluate its effects on their cognitive functions and cardiovascular risk factors. An additional aim of the study was the comparison of the adherence to the physical activity program before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Forty sedentary patients diagnosed with schizophrenia (mean age 46.4 ± 9.6) followed by the Public Mental Health Department of Ferrara were included in the study. 28 of them followed a 1-year walking program consisting of two guided walking sessions/week, while 12 maintained their sedentary lifestyle and followed the usual Cognitive Rehabilitation program. To the participants following the walking program VO₂ peak and walking speed were assessed at baseline and at the end of the program. All participants were evaluated on blood pressure and anthropometric variable. Cognitive functions were assessed with the Screen for Cognitive Impairment in Psychiatry (SCIP) and with the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) questionnaires.

Results

The 20 participants completing the walking program displayed significant improvements in cognitive functions (d_ppc2 0.35 for SCIP and 0.26 for FAB), with a positive correlation between SCIP score and the number of sessions attended (R = 0.86, p < 0.001), evident in the patients attending to at least 75 of the 100 walking sessions. Walking speed and VO₂peak increased significantly and a decrease of body weight, BMI, systolic and diastolic blood pressure was also observed. The adherence to the walking program registered during Covid-19 period did not differ from that observed before the pandemic. The 12 CG (Control Group) patients maintaining the sedentary lifestyle did not display improvements of cognitive functions.

Conclusions

The main finding of this study is the improvement of cognitive functions which is significantly related to the number of walking sessions attended by participants with schizophrenia. The walking program, guided by exercise specialists, proved to be an enjoyable activity for people with mental disorder feasible even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Trial registration Retrospectively registered on ISRCTN as non-randomized trial (n. ISRCTN14763786).

Effects of Aerobic, Resistance, and Combined Exercise Training on Psychiatric Symptom Severity and Related Health Measures in Adults Living With Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Previous research has demonstrated the efficacy, effectiveness, and safety of exercise training in persons living with schizophrenia. However, the optimal exercise training program remains unclear. The aim of this paper was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of aerobic, resistance, and combined aerobic and resistance training on health-related physical fitness and positive and negative symptoms in persons living with schizophrenia. Six electronic databases were searched systematically from their inception to December 2020 [MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL)] to identify literature examining the effects of exercise training on psychiatric symptoms and health-related physical fitness indicators in persons living with schizophrenia. A total of 22 studies (n = 913) were included in this review, and 12 studies (n = 554) included within the meta-analysis reported the effects of exercise training (aerobic, resistance, and combined aerobic and resistance) in persons living with schizophrenia. Aerobic training had a significant decrease on Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) negative scores (ES -2.28, 95% CI -3.57 to -1.00; p = 0.0005) and PANSS general scores (ES -2.51, 95% CI -3.47 to -1.55; p < 0.00001). Resistance training did not lead to significant effects on PANSS total scores. Combined aerobic and resistance training did not lead to significant changes in body mass index, PANSS positive scores, or PANSS total scores. However, grouping together the results from all exercise training modalities (including aerobic training, resistance training, and combined aerobic and resistance training) revealed significant effects on body mass index (ES 1.86, 95% CI 0.84 to 2.88; p = 0.0003), maximal/peak oxygen consumption (ES 2.54, 95% CI 1.47 to 3.62; p = < 0.00001), body weight (ES 6.58, 95% CI 2.94 to 10.22; p = 0.0004), PANSS negative scores (ES -1.90, 95% CI -2.70 to -1.10; p < 0.00001), and Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS) total (ES -14.90, 95% CI -22.07 to -7.74; p < 0.0001). Collectively, these findings support the importance of exercise participation (aerobic and resistance training) in persons living with schizophrenia.

A pilot study of a yoga intervention for the treatment of anxiety in young people with early psychosis

BACKGROUND

Anxiety is common in young people with early psychosis and treatment options for this co-morbidity remain limited. Yoga is a promising adjunct intervention that has been shown to reduce anxiety for adults with schizophrenia, therefore this pilot study evaluated the acceptability and potential effectiveness of yoga for anxiety in early psychosis.

METHODS

A prospective single arm pilot study of a yoga intervention was conducted within an Early Intervention for psychosis service. Rates of attendance, as well as symptoms of anxiety pre and post yoga session were measured.

RESULTS

A total of 14 young people participated in the study and over 70% attended half or more of the yoga sessions offered. Significant transient reduction in state anxiety after a single session of yoga was observed (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Yoga was found to be an acceptable and potentially effective adjunctive treatment for anxiety in early psychosis and the results warrant further clinical trials.

Improving the physical health of young people with early psychosis with lifestyle interventions: Scoping review

People with mental illness experience a shorter life expectancy compared to the general population. Poor physical health trajectory emerges following the onset of psychosis and is further compounded by the initiation of antipsychotic treatment. Young people are particularly at risk as the onset of mental illness mostly occurs between the age of 12 and 25 years. This represents a crucial period for early intervention to prevent a physical ill health trajectory. Furthermore, those who are at ultra-high risk for psychosis should also be targeted for early intervention. Lifestyle interventions have been identified as the first-line physical health promotion practice for improving the physical health of people with severe mental illness. The aim of this study was to conduct a scoping review following the JBI methodological guidance on scoping reviews to explore the current literature on lifestyle intervention trialled for early psychosis, including first-episode psychosis and those who are at ultra-high risk for psychosis. This review also explores the extent of literature examining physical health literacy in this specific population. The literature search was conducted on Medline, Embase, PsycINFO and Scopus. Twenty-two studies were included for the purpose of this scoping review, 21 of which examined the effects of lifestyle interventions and one of which reported on physical health literacy. This scoping review indicates the need for co-designed lifestyle interventions with the involvement of service users, families and carers and a focus on promoting physical health literacy, social support, and an incorporation of a health behaviour change model focus on promoting autonomous motivation. The findings of this study can inform future development of a novel co-designed lifestyle intervention for the targeted population.

Cognition and Exercise: GENERAL OVERVIEW AND IMPLICATIONS FOR CARDIAC REHABILITATION

Performance of endurance exercise is associated with a broad range of cognitive benefits, with notable improvements shown across a wide variety of populations including healthy populations as well as those with impaired cognition. By examining the effects of exercise in general populations, as well in populations where cognitive deficits are pronounced, and critical to self-care, we can learn more about using exercise to ameliorate cognitive issues and apply that knowledge to other patient populations, such as those eligible for cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Cognitive challenges are a concern within CR, as management of a chronic disease is cognitively taxing, and, as expected, deficits in cognition predict worse outcomes, including lower attendance at CR. Some subsets of patients within CR may be particularly at high risk for cognitive challenges including those with heart failure with low ejection fraction, recent coronary bypass surgery, multiple chronic conditions, and patients of lower socioeconomic status. Attendance at CR is associated with cognitive gains, likely through the progressive exercise component, with larger amounts of exercise over longer periods having greater benefits. Programs should identify at-risk patients, who could gain the most from completing CR, and provide additional support to keep those patients engaged. While engaged in CR, patients should be encouraged to exercise, at least at moderate intensity, and transitioned to a long-term exercise regimen. Overall, CR programs are well-positioned to support these patients and make significant contributions to their long-term well-being.

Exercise training complementary to specialised early intervention in patients with first-episode psychosis: a feasibility randomised trial

Background

The aim of this study was to examine feasibility of trial processes and group-based, structured exercise training in patients with first-episode psychosis.

Methods

Twenty-five patients with first-episode psychosis took part in a two-arm randomised feasibility trial. They were individually randomised (1:1) via a computer-generated randomisation sequence and allocated to either an exercise intervention group (INT) or a control group (CON). Patients allocated to INT completed a physical exercise training programme at moderate-to-vigorous intensity, 1 h three times weekly for 8 weeks. CON patients were encouraged to continue their usual level of activity and were offered the training programme after 8 weeks. Primary outcomes included screening rate, recruitment rate, retention rate, attendance and adverse events. Secondary outcomes included heart rate response during training, cardiovascular health (VO_2max, resting heart rate, blood pressure), body composition (muscle mass, fat percentage), muscle strength (sit-to-stand, grip strength, jump height) and balance.

Results

Recruitment lasted 6 weeks and 86 out of 324 patients (27%) were screened, 71 of whom (83%) were deemed eligible. Twenty-five (35%) accepted inclusion (mean age 25.5; mean body mass index 25.1) and were subsequently randomised (INT = 13, CON = 12). Retention of patients was 76% and 52% at the 8-week and 16-week follow-up, respectively. Attendance was 43% (min. 9%, max. 96%). No significant changes were observed between groups in secondary physiological outcome measures.

Conclusions

Feasibility was challenged by limited recruitment and retention rates, suggesting that modifications are required if a large-scale randomised controlled trial is to be conducted. Recommendations for modifications are presented and discussed.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03409393. Retrospectively registered.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40814-021-00900-5.

Subjective Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Schizotypy and General Mental Health in Germany and the United Kingdom, for Independent Samples in May and in October 2020

Studies reported a strong impact on mental health during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in March-June, 2020. In this study, we assessed the impact of the pandemic on mental health in general and on schizotypal traits in two independent general population samples of the United Kingdom (May sample N: 239, October sample N: 126; participation at both timepoints: 21) and in two independent general population samples of Germany (May sample N: 543, October sample N: 401; participation at both timepoints: 100) using online surveys. Whereas general psychological symptoms (global symptom index, GSI) and percentage of responders above clinical cut-off for further psychological investigation were higher in the May sample compared to the October sample, schizotypy scores (Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire) were higher in the October sample. We investigated potential associations, using general linear regression models (GLM). For schizotypy scores, we found that loneliness, use of drugs, and financial burden were more strongly corrected with schizotypy in the October compared to the May sample. We identified similar associations for GSI, as for schizotypy scores, in the May and October samples. We furthermore found that living in the United Kingdom was related to higher schizotypal scores or GSI. However, individual estimates of the GLM are highly comparable between the two countries. In conclusion, this study shows that while the general psychological impact is lower in the October than the May sample, potentially showing a normative response to an exceptional situation; schizotypy scores are higher at the second timepoint, which may be due to a stronger impact of estimates of loneliness, drug use, and financial burden. The ongoing, exceptional circumstances within this pandemic might increase the risk for developing psychosis in some individuals. The development of general psychological symptoms and schizotypy scores over time requires further attention and investigation.

Developing a Sound Body: Open Trial Results of a Group Healthy Lifestyle Intervention for Young Adults with Psychosis

The mortality disparity for persons with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs) due to cardiovascular disease is a devastating problem. Many risk factors are present in young adults with psychosis that may be ameliorated with lifestyle interventions. Sixteen participants with SSDs enrolled in an 11-week open trial of a novel lifestyle intervention comprised of group high intensity interval training exercise and health and wellness education. The aims were to evaluate (1) feasibility and (2) impact on sedentary behavior, physical activity, nutritional knowledge, physiological outcomes, and psychological well-being at end of intervention and 11-week follow-up. Attendance rates were 70% or higher for both intervention components and participants reported increased learning about healthy eating and exercise habits. Moderate to large effect sizes were observed for physical activity and sedentary behavior with sustained improvements in sedentary behavior at follow-up. Meaningful changes were not observed in other domains.

Effects of Exercise on Resilience, Insight and Functionality in Patients with Chronic Schizophrenia in a Psychiatric Nursing Home Setting: A Randomized Controlled Trial

To our knowledge, there are no studies on the effects of exercise in patients with severe schizophrenia-related disability or in nursing home settings. Again, the literature search on the influence of exercise on insight and resilience gives no results except mind-body exercises. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of exercise on psychotic symptoms, depression, functionality, insight and resilience in patients with severe schizophrenia-related disability living in nursing home setting. Thirty-nine patients with schizophrenia were recruited. Exercise group with 20 patients who continued resistance exercise for 60 min, 2 days a week, for 3 months; and treatment as usual (TAU) group with 19 patients. All patients were administered Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms, Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS), Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia (CDSS), Schedule for Assessment of Insight (SAI), Functional Remission of General Schizophrenia Scale (FROGS), Resilience Scale for Adults (RSA) at baseline and 3 months after. There were no significant differences between the groups for baseline and third month scores. In both groups significant decrease in SANS scores, significant increase in scores of FROGS total and social functioning, daily life skills subscale and RSA perception of the self were observed. In exercise group, significant decrease in CDSS scores, and significant increase in SAI awareness of illness, FROGS health and treatment, occupational functioning scores were found. Exercise combined with TAU may be effective in increasing awareness of illness and alleviating depression in chronic schizophrenia.

Occupational outcomes of a physical activity intervention for post-secondary student mental health

BACKGROUND.

Physical activity (PA) is a therapeutic approach to address post-secondary student mental health, yet the effect of PA on occupational outcomes has been understudied among students.

PURPOSE.

This study (1) identified and described occupational performance issues (OPIs) among post-secondary students seeking mental health support and (2) assessed pre- and post-intervention differences in occupational performance and performance satisfaction.

METHOD.

Using a single group pre-test post-test pilot study design, participants (N = 20) completed a 6-week, 1-hour PA intervention. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure was administered pre- and post-intervention.

FINDINGS.

The most commonly reported OPIs included academics, PA, and sleep hygiene. There were significant improvements in participants' occupational performance (mean change: 2.7, p < .001; d_z = 2.28) and performance satisfaction (mean change: 3.7, p < .001; d_z = 3.04).

IMPLICATIONS.

Results provide an initial demonstration of the benefits of PA for occupational outcomes within a post-secondary mental health context.

Pilot aerobic exercise intervention for youth at-risk for serious mental illness

BACKGROUND

This study was conducted as a pilot exercise intervention in youth at-risk for serious mental illness (SMI). The objectives were to examine the feasibility of an exercise intervention and to determine what improvement was observed, following participation in a moderate- to high-intensity aerobic exercise programme.

METHODS

Forty-four male and female youth at-risk for SMI were recruited. Participants completed clinical, lifestyle and fitness assessments prior to and following a 16-week moderate- to high-intensity aerobic exercise intervention. Sixty-minute exercise sessions were held three times per week.

RESULTS

Forty-one participants completed the entire intervention and assessments; thus, the retention rate was 93.2%. Exercise participants achieved a mean of 98.3 (standard deviation (SD) 26.1) minutes/week of high-intensity and a mean of 32.8 (SD 8.7) minutes/week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise over the course of 16 weeks. Improvements in aerobic fitness and body composition as well as reductions in anxiety and depression were observed after the exercise intervention.

CONCLUSION

Aerobic exercise is a feasible and sound intervention strategy in youth at-risk for SMI. Further research is required to expand upon these initial findings and develop knowledge of the mechanisms, optimum dose and factors that influence the efficacy of exercise.

Towards precision medicine: What are the stratification hypotheses to identify homogeneous inflammatory subgroups

Diverse lines of research testify a link, presumably causal, between immune dysregulation and the development, course and clinical outcome of psychiatric disorders. However, there is a large heterogeneity among the patients' individual immune profile and this heterogeneity prevents the development of precise diagnostic tools and the identification of therapeutic targets. The aim of this review was to delineate possible subgroups of patients on the basis of clinical dimensions, investigating whether they could lead to particular immune signatures and tailored treatments. We discuss six clinical entry points; genetic liability to immune dysregulation, childhood maltreatment, metabolic syndrome, cognitive dysfunction, negative symptoms and treatment resistance. We describe the associated immune signature and outline the effects of anti-inflammatory drugs so far. Finally, we discuss advantages of this approach, challenges and future research directions.

Effects of aerobic walking on cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia: A randomized controlled trial

Cognitive deficits, which are core manifestations in schizophrenia and exhibit a limited response to antipsychotic treatment, contribute to poor treatment outcomes and functional disability. Evidence on the effect of aerobic walking (AW) and exercise intensity on cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia is lacking. In total, 79 patients with schizophrenia were recruited for a 12-week randomized control trial and allocated to the treatment-as-usual (TAU, n = 38) and treatment-as-usual plus AW (TAW, n = 39) groups. The TAW participants joined a supervised 12-week AW program consisting of 30-min sessions five times per week while wearing a Fitbit Charge 2 device. Cognitive function was evaluated using the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia. After randomization, 67 (34 TAU and 33 TAW) participants joined the 12-week trial and were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. Multivariate general linear model repeated measures analysis revealed no significant time × group interaction effect on cognitive function changes between the TAU and TAW groups and a marginally significant group effect on verbal fluency (p = 0.09). The interaction effect of time and treatment group on verbal fluency (p = 0.05) was marginally significant between the high and low AW intensity groups, whereas a significant group effect on attention and processing speed (p = 0.04) was observed. Supervised 12-week AW of moderate intensity may have potential cognitive benefits for patients with schizophrenia.

Qualitative analysis of the Meals, Mindfulness, & Moving Forward (M3 ) lifestyle programme: Cultivating a 'safe space' to start on a 'new path' for youth with early episode psychosis

AIM

The Meals, Mindfulness, & Moving Forward (M3 ) programme included nutrition education, hands-on cooking classes, mindfulness meditation practice, physical activities and facilitated group sharing. M3 was designed as a supplement to standard care for youths (age 15-25 years) with first-episode psychosis (FEP) who were clients of coordinated specialty care teams. M3 's primary aim was feasibility by demonstrating high programme attendance; secondary aims included cardiometabolic measures. Data collection included quantitative and qualitative outcomes. The aim of the qualitative study was to understand participants' and study partners' experiences during the programme and to understand programme elements that were helpful for young people to sustain healthy lifestyle choices 6 weeks post-programme.

METHODS

During the last programme session, we conducted two focus groups, one with participants (n = 13) and one with their study partners (n = 11); 6 weeks post-intervention, individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 participants. All interviews were audio recorded and transcribed; grounded theory methods guided thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Main themes from the focus groups included appreciation for a 'non-stigmatizing' environment providing participants and study partners with a sense of 'dignity' that enabled a 'new path'. Six weeks post-intervention, participants reported continued use of mindfulness practice to stay grounded and assist with making healthful lifestyle changes. However, many were unsure of how to sustain these changes long-term.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that young people with FEP value a non-stigmatizing space that allows for social engagement and facilitates healthy behaviours. Short-term, M3 participants reported behaviour change but wanted on-going support to sustain healthy behaviours.

In- and outpatient lifestyle interventions on diet and exercise and their effect on physical and psychological health: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and first episode of psychosis

Patients with non-affective psychosis often lead unhealthy lifestyles. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis on non-pharmacological RCTs for improvement of diet and physical activity in non-affective psychosis patients, including first-episode psychosis. A variety of outcomes was analysed, including metabolic, psychopathology, cognitive, functional and quality of life outcomes. Fifty-nine studies were included. An improvement in anthropometric measurements (BMI, weight, waist circumference) was observed post-intervention, persisting after follow-up. Post-intervention benefit was found also for psychotic symptoms severity (also persisting after follow-up), many cognitive domains and physical and global functioning and quality of life. Conversely, no effect was observed in relation to most blood metabolites, blood pressure and non-psychotic psychopathology and spontaneous physical activity. Improvement was generally larger for interventions including exercise, especially moderate/vigorous aerobic exercise, but follow-up maintenance was greater for psychotherapy interventions. Sensitivity analyses limited to chronic stages of psychosis and low risk of bias studies produced comparable results. Further studies are needed to design optimized interventions in this vulnerable population.

Early Intervention in Psychosis: Effectiveness and Implementation of a Combined Exercise and Health Behavior Intervention Within Routine Care

Aim

Young people with psychosis have higher rates of obesity, premature cardiovascular disease, and death compared to non-psychotic peers in the general population due to changes in metabolic regulation linked to antipsychotic medication and adverse health risk behaviors. The aim of this paper is to outline the development, implementation, and evaluation of a combined 12-week exercise and health behavior intervention delivered as part of an Early Intervention in Psychosis (EIP) routine service, within the UK.

Methods

Participants (n = 27) completed a 12-week combined intervention program, engaging in weekly, 90-min sessions comprising a healthy behavior education session (45 min), followed by a facilitated exercise session (45 min). Anthropometric data from participants (n = 26) were collected at baseline, 12 weeks, and 12 months post-intervention. Health behaviors and clinical measurements were assessed at baseline and 12 months.

Results

Mean baseline data suggests participants were at an increased health risk on entry to the program, with elevated values in mean body mass index (BMI; 70% overweight/obese), waist circumference, resting heart rate, and triglycerides. Fifty percent reported smoking daily, 64% ate < 5 fruits/vegetables per day, and 52% of participants were prescribed highly obesogenic antipsychotic medications (i.e., Olanzapine). At 12 weeks and 12 months, no changes were observed in mean BMI, waist circumference or any other clinical variable (p > 0.05). At 12 months, participants reported a positive impact on health behaviors including improved diet, increased physical activity levels, and cessation of substance use (n = 2), alcohol use (n = 2), and smoking (n = 4). Focus groups captured participant experiences, engagement with and satisfaction with the program, including challenges/barriers to program adherence.

Conclusions

The 12-week exercise and health behaviors program supported participants to attenuate their physical health risk which was sustained at 12-month follow-up. Self-reported positive health behavior changes are likely to have contributed to the prevention of excessive weight gain in this high-risk period. The evaluation was designed to have validity for a "real world EIP setting" and reflect the complexity of delivery to this participant group. Evaluation findings influenced subsequent commissioning of the physical health intervention as an ongoing element of routine EIP care within the participant site.

Physical health interventions for patients who have experienced a first episode of psychosis: a narrative review

Objectives:

Service users with severe psychiatric illnesses, such as schizophrenia, major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, are more likely to suffer from ill health. There is evidence that lifestyle interventions, for example, exercise, dietary advice and smoking cessation programmes for service users with severe mental illness can be of health benefit. This review was carried out to identify the literature pertaining to physical health interventions for service users who have experienced a first-episode psychosis (FEP), to examine the nature of the interventions which were carried out and to assess these interventions in terms of feasibility and efficacy.

Methods:

A narrative review was conducted in August 2019 by searching ‘Pubmed’ and ‘Embase’ electronic databases. Studies investigating the effect a physical health intervention had on service users who had experienced a FEP were included in the review.

Results:

Fifteen studies met inclusion criteria: 12 quantitative studies and 3 qualitative. Exercise, dietary advice, smoking cessation and motivational coaching were some of the physical health interventions utilised in the identified studies. Positive effects were seen in terms of physical health markers wherever they were investigated, particularly when the intervention was delivered early. The impact on psychiatric symptoms and longer-term impacts on health were less frequently assessed.

Conclusions:

Physical health interventions have a positive impact on service users who have experienced a FEP. More research is warranted in this area in Ireland. These studies should include controls, have longer follow-up periods and should assess the impact on psychiatric health.

Verbal memory measurement towards digital perspectives in first-episode psychosis: A review

BACKGROUND

Even in the early phases of psychotic spectrum illnesses such as schizophrenia, patients can experience cognitive decline or deficits prior to the onset of psychotic symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations. In this systematic review, we assessed which verbal memory assessments are most widely used in first-episode psychosis and may be applied via digital technologies (smartphone applications, etc.) for use in early detection.

METHODS

In November 2019, we searched for studies measuring verbal memory in first episode psychosis or schizophrenia over the past 10 years on PubMed and PsycINFO. We screened abstracts of these studies and excluded review studies. Full-texts of included studies were used to identify the verbal memory measurement tests, follow-up frequencies, and sample sizes.

RESULTS

We screened 233 reports and found that 120 original research studies measured verbal memory in first episode psychosis over the past 10 years. Four of these studies specified using a computer, 24 (20%) used a paper-pen format, 1(1%) used both, and 91 (76%) studies did not specify their administration tools or suggest there were offered in digital formats. Thirty-five (30%) studies had follow-up measurements of verbal memory, while 85 (70%) had only a single verbal memory measurement.

DISCUSSION

While many scales are commonly used to measure verbal memory in first episode psychosis, they are not often administered via digital technology. There is an emerging opportunity to administer these and other tests via digital technologies for expanding access to early detection of cognitive decline in clinical high risk and first-episode psychosis.

Stepping up early treatment for help-seeking youth with at-risk mental states: Feasibility and acceptability of a real-world exercise program

INTRODUCTION

Youth with at-risk mental states (ARMS) have low levels of physical activity (PA), reduced fitness levels and experience poor sleep quality. These lifestyle factors exacerbate mental health symptoms and increase cardiometabolic disease risk. PA interventions can help prevent this decline in physical health whilst reducing mental health symptom severity. Whether PA interventions are feasible and acceptable amongst youth with ARMS is unclear.

METHODS

This study evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of headspace Active, a pragmatic PA program offered to 14 to 25 year olds with ARMS. The 12-week exercise physiologist-led intervention was conducted in adjunct to usual care. Feasibility was determined by number of referrals, attendance, engagement in exercise sessions and dropout from the intervention. Acceptability was assessed by a 10-item questionnaire. Secondary outcomes included anthropometry, cardiorespiratory fitness and strength. Subjective PA levels, symptoms of depression and anxiety, sleep, motivation and quality of life were also assessed.

RESULTS

Within 12 months, 77% of referrals completed the 12-week intervention (n = 20), with six dropouts. Of the 20 "completers", 95% attended at least five sessions over the 12-week intervention. Participants found the program highly acceptable (mean = 41.2/50 on the 10-item acceptability questionnaire) and experienced significant improvements in PA, strength, motivation, depressive symptoms and sleep quality post-intervention. No changes in anthropometry were observed.

CONCLUSION

Results suggest headspace Active was feasible and acceptable and was associated with improvements in physical and mental health outcomes among ARMS youth. Given the potential scalability of this real-world PA program to other youth mental health settings, these data have implications for best practice implementation of PA interventions for individuals with emerging mental illness.

[Management of cardiovascular co-morbidities in young patients with early onset psychosis: State of the art and therapeutic perspectives]

Patients with psychiatric disorders have a decrease in their life expectancy. Excess mortality of patients with schizophrenia was demonstrated by a meta-analysis in the late 1990s and has not decreased for the past 30years. A recent meta-analysis including nearly 250,000 patients with schizophrenia found an average decrease in life expectancy of 14.5years (CI95: 11,2-17,8), more important for men than for women: 15.9 (CI95: 13,8-18,0) vs 13.6 (CI95: 11,4-15,8). A closer look at the somatic comorbidities, including metabolic syndrome, and investigation of causes of death of these patients highlighted already well-known factors, namely late diagnosis and insufficient treatment of physical diseases, side effects of antipsychotics, unhealthy lifestyle (poor diet, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and lack of exercise), and higher risk of suicide and accident. Concerning ultra-high risk (UHR) patients, a 2016 meta-analysis of 47 studies evaluated the cardiovascular risk factors. They reported a higher prevalence of smoking in UHR (odds ratio 2,3) and a lower level of physical activity associated with a normal BMI (Body Mass Index) compared to the control population. A meta-analysis about patients with a first episode of psychosis (FEP) found reduced total and LDL cholesterol levels and an increased triglyceride level compared to the control population. One study found alteration of the fasting plasmatic levels of glucose and insulin, as well as insulin resistance in FEP patients, compared to controls albeit the HbA1c level was not significantly different. A meta-analysis reported a prevalence of metabolic syndrome of 10 % in FEP or drug naïve patients versus 35 % and 20 % in treated and untreated patients with chronic schizophrenia respectively. Somatic comorbidities usually appear during the first two years of the disease. Some interventions have proven their efficacy in reducing the occurrence of metabolic syndrome and other cardiovascular risk factors. For instance, metformin, a treatment for type 2 diabetes that is allowed from the age of 10, has shown benefits in children and adolescents receiving second-generation antipsychotics in a recent meta-analysis, with a mean weight loss of 3.23kg (IC95 % -5.59 -0.86) after 16 weeks. Dietary-hygienic interventions are also effective in reducing cardiovascular risk. Other interventions such as omega-3 supplementation, vitamin D, N-acetylcysteine, and fasting have not proven to be effective. Comprehensive care programs have been developed to promote somatic care in psychiatric patients, such as the Canadian HeAL (Healthy Active Lives) program. These programs are more effective when proposed from the beginning of the disease and the introduction of antipsychotics. In this review, because there is no French recommendation, we translate a tool for the prescription of metformin and the Canadian recommendations from the HeAL program. Generalization of these programs to all young psychotic patients could improve their life expectancy and reduce the overall mortality. Prevention of cardiovascular risk factors and cardio-metabolic monitoring of treatments must be part of the standard of care in early psychosis. These programs aim at providing patients with the quality of somatic and mental care they are entitled to. This requires the involvement of all stakeholders, including patients and their families but also psychiatrists and other caregivers.

Qualitative investigation of perceived barriers to and enablers of sport participation for young people with first episode psychosis

AIMS

The aim and objective of the study was building on a previous call for the development of sport-based life skills interventions for young people with first episode of psychosis (FEP) (Brooke, Lin, Ntoumanis, & Gucciardi, 2018), to explore the barriers and enablers to sport participation for young people with FEP.

METHOD

We used a semi-structured interview format to conduct one-to-one interviews with young people (aged 16-25; n = 10) with FEP, and one-to-one interviews and focus groups with their clinicians (n = 33). Questions focused on barriers and facilitators (intrapersonal, interpersonal, psychological, environment, health/safety, logistical) to sport participation young people with FEP. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

RESULTS

Four themes (and 11 sub-themes) emerged from the analysis: (a) the need for sport in FEP recovery (perceived benefits; resource gap); (b) barriers (logistical; psychological); (c) enablers (positive environmental expectations and experiences) and (d) programme design (sport programme/type; life skills training; application to barriers/enablers).

CONCLUSION

The participants responded favourably to the idea of using sport to promote recovery post-FEP, and provided an insight into why sport is currently underutilized within FEP recovery efforts. The barriers, enablers, and specific suggestions for how to limit the barriers and strengthen the enablers are valuable for sport-based intervention design, and may be applicable to non-sport-based interventions for people with FEP.

Using exercise to protect physical and mental health in youth at risk for psychosis

A large body of literature has demonstrated that exercise interventions can improve a broad range of outcomes in people with established schizophrenia, including reducing psychiatric symptoms, increasing cognitive functioning, and improving physical health. Furthermore, these benefits seem just as pronounced in first-episode psychosis. However, there have been few clinical studies to date examining the effects of exercise in those found to be ‘at-risk’ of psychosis, particularly for those meeting the criteria for ‘Clinical High Risk’ (CHR) state (a classification which includes both those meeting the ‘ultra-high risk for psychosis’ criteria and/or those with ‘atrisk mental states’). This is surprising, as a proportion of those in the CHR state go on to develop psychotic disorders, and a growing body of evidence suggests that early interventions in this period have significant potential to improve the course of illness. In this article, we shall review the existing literature for i) exercise as an adjunctive intervention for those treated for psychosis; ii) exercise as a standalone intervention in CHR groups; and iii) the rationale and supportive evidence for widescale use of exercise to preserve physical and mental health in those identified as at risk for psychosis. From this, we will put forth how the CHR phase represents an under-researched but highly-suitable timepoint for administering structured exercise interventions, in order to improve physical, psychological and neurocognitive outcomes; while also potentially reducing the odds of transition to full-threshold psychotic disorders. Following this, directions, recommendations and considerations around both the clinical implementation and future research around exercise in CHR individuals will be discussed.

Physical Fitness and Activity Levels among Chinese People with Schizophrenia: A Cross-Sectional Study with Matched Case-Control Comparison

People with schizophrenia have an increased risk of developing cardiometabolic diseases and a reduced life expectancy. Studies conducted mainly in Western settings report low amounts of activity and poor levels of fitness in this population. This study aims to compare physical fitness and activity levels between people with schizophrenia/healthy matched controls and investigate potential associations between these variables. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 57 community-dwelling people with schizophrenia and 57 age-, gender- and body mass index (BMI)-matched controls. Participants completed the international physical activity questionnaire and the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) fitness assessment protocol with accompanying cardiovascular/lung function tests. Cardiorespiratory fitness was significantly better in healthy matched controls than individuals with schizophrenia in all areas (all p < 0.05, d = 0.38 to 1.06). Performance in best trunk flexion, half sit-ups and one-minute pulse recovery following the three-min step test were significantly worse in the schizophrenia group (all p < 0001, d = 0.76 to 1.04). Higher levels of weekly moderate activity (t = −2.66, p = 0.009) and total weekly activity levels (t = −2.013, p = 0.047) were reported by the healthy controls. Levels of vigorous activity were significantly correlated with some areas of lung functioning in the schizophrenia group (all p < 0.05). The findings show that Chinese people with schizophrenia have significantly poorer fitness than matched healthy controls, demonstrating the need to provide timely effective exercise-based interventions as a matter of routine to attenuate the risk of developing chronic physical illnesses.

Evidence Supports PA Prescription for Parkinson's Disease: Motor Symptoms and Non-Motor Features: A Scoping Review

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, which relates to not only motor symptoms, but also cognitive, autonomic, and mood impairments. The literature suggests that pharmacological or surgical treatment has a limited effect on providing relief of the symptoms and also restricting its progression. Recently, research on non-pharmacological interventions for people living with PD (pwPD) that alleviate their motor and non-motor features has shown a new aspect in treating this complex disease. Numerous studies are supporting exercise intervention as being effective in both motor and non-motor facets of PD, such as physical functioning, strength, balance, gait speed, and cognitive impairment. Via the lens of the physical profession, this paper strives to provide another perspective for PD treatment by presenting exercise modes categorized by motor and non-motor PD symptoms, along with its effects and mechanisms. Acknowledging that there is no “one size fits all” exercise prescription for such a variable and progressive disease, this review is to outline tailored physical activities as a credible approach in treating pwPD, conceivably enhancing overall physical capacity, ameliorating the symptoms, reducing the risk of falls and injuries, and, eventually, elevating the quality of life. It also provides references and practical prescription applications for the clinician.

Designing a feasible exercise intervention in first-episode psychosis: Exercise quality, engagement and effect

First-episode psychosis (FEP) is the first presentation of a psychotic disorder that usually propagates during early adulthood. FEP represents an important early intervention point to attenuate the metabolic risks associated with psychosis and its treatment. Exercise has potential to improve metabolic and functional outcome, but engaging this population in regular exercise is typically difficult. Promoting enjoyment and attendance may improve participation. 22 men with FEP were randomised to a 12-week intervention of exercise training, or treatment as usual. Exercise was pre-standardised based on measures of heart rate to assess intensity. Symptoms of psychosis were assessed, alongside measures of quality of life, disability and habitual activity. The study observed 83% attendance at exercise sessions, with target intensity attained. There were clinically meaningful decreases in PANSS positive (17.31%) and general psychopathology (10.98%) scores and exercise was protective of negative score increase observed in the control group (13.89%). Assessment of disability declined after training (12.65%) compared with a 20.78% increase in controls. This study demonstrated that engagement of FEP patients in an intervention of high quality exercise was possible. Positive changes in psychopathology scores and disability show that the benefits of regular exercise are achievable with a potential positive impact on clinical presentation.

Resistance training in patients with schizophrenia: Concept and proof of principle trial

Resistance training has been shown to contribute to the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases, which is why it can help reducing morbidity and mortality in schizophrenia patients. Moreover, positive effects on different schizophrenia symptom domains have been proposed. However, a specific resistance training tailored to the needs of schizophrenia patients and its evaluation is still lacking. The objective in this proof of principle trial was to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a newly developed 12-week resistance program according to current recommendations of the WHO and the American College of Sports Medicine. We employed a single blind, parallel assignment clinical trial design with participants randomized to attend either a resistance training including three 50min units per week or a balance and tone program as control condition. The primary outcome was the impact on health-related difficulties assessed with the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHO-DAS). Secondary outcome parameters included the level of functioning, schizophrenia symptoms, selected cognitive parameters as well as risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. In our proof of principle trial, we could not find significant time or group effects of resistance training on the WHO-DAS. However, we could observe significant positive effects on the level of functioning assessed with the Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (GAF) over the course of time, which were more pronounced in the intervention group. Our findings indicated that patients with schizophrenia could safely participate in resistance training with relevant improvements in their level of functioning. Well-powered replication trials are needed to provide more efficacy data.

Improving Cognition via Exercise (ICE): Study Protocol for a Multi-Site, Parallel-Group, Single-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial Examining the Efficacy of Aerobic Exercise to Improve Neurocognition, Daily Functioning, and Biomarkers of Cognitive Change in Individuals with Schizophrenia

Individuals with schizophrenia (SZ) display cognitive deficits that have been identified as major determinants of poor functioning and disability, representing a serious public health concern and an important target for interventions. At present, available treatments offer only minimal to moderate benefits to ameliorate cognitive deficits. Thus, there remains an urgent need to identify novel interventions to improve cognition in people with SZ. Emerging evidence from animal and basic human research suggests aerobic exercise training (AE) has beneficial effects on cognition. Preliminary findings suggest that AE is efficacious in improving cognitive functioning in SZ, however the extant studies have been limited by small samples, a dearth of information on biologically-relevant covariates, and limited information on impact on daily functioning. Additionally, while AE-related cognitive benefits have been linked to Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) upregulation, this putative mechanism needs confirmation. The present report describes a study protocol designed to address these limitations-we review and summarize the current literature on treatment of cognitive deficits in SZ, state the rationale for employing AE to target these deficits, and describe the current protocol-a multi-site, single-blind, randomized clinical trial aiming to recruit 200 community-dwelling individuals with SZ. Participants are randomized to one of two 12-week interventions: AE using active-play video games (i.e., Xbox Kinect) and traditional cardiovascular exercise equipment or a stretching-and-toning (ST) control intervention. Participants undergo assessments of aerobic fitness, cognition, and daily functioning, as well as BDNF and other biomarkers of cognitive change, at baseline and after 6-and 12-weeks.

The impact of endurance training and table soccer on brain metabolites in schizophrenia

Higher glutamate and glutamine (together: Glx) and lower N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) levels were reported in schizophrenia. Endurance training normalizes NAA in the hippocampus, but its effects on other metabolites in the brain and the relationship of metabolites to clinical symptoms remain unknown. For 12 weeks, 20 schizophrenia inpatients (14 men, 6 women) and 23 healthy controls (16 men, 7 women) performed endurance training and a control group of 21 schizophrenia inpatients (15 men, 6 women) played table soccer. A computer-assisted cognitive performance training program was introduced after 6 weeks. We assessed cognitive performance, psychopathological symptoms, and everyday functioning at baseline and after 6 and 12 weeks and performed single voxel magnetic resonance spectroscopy of the hippocampus, left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), and thalamus. We quantified NAA, Glx, total creatine (tCr), calculated NAA/tCr and Glx/tCr and correlated these ratios with physical fitness, clinical and neurocognitive scores, and everyday functioning. At baseline, in both schizophrenia groups NAA/tCr was lower in the left DLPFC and left hippocampus and Glx/tCr was lower in the hippocampus than in the healthy controls. After 6 weeks, NAA/tCr increased in the left DLPFC in both schizophrenia groups. Brain metabolites did not change significantly in the hippocampus or thalamus, but the correlation between NAA/tCr and Glx/tCr normalized in the left DLPFC. Global Assessment of Functioning improvements correlated with NAA/tCr changes in the left DLPFC. In our study, endurance training and table soccer induced normalization of brain metabolite ratios in the brain circuitry associated with neuronal and synaptic elements, including metabolites of the glutamatergic system.

Non-pharmacological interventions for preventing weight gain in patients with first episode schizophrenia or bipolar disorder: A systematic review

Weight gain is a side effect of antipsychotic medication and highly prevalent in people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, increasing their overall cardio-metabolic risk. We conducted a systematic review on non-pharmacological interventions for preventing/reducing weight gain or increase in waist-circumference in young, newly diagnosed patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. We searched major electronic databases from inception to 04/2019 on RCTs, pre- and post-test studies, and non-randomized controlled clinical trials. From a potential of 2963 hits, eight studies met the inclusion criteria (n = 438, mean age of 18.8 (13-45) years). The interventions comprised supervised and individually adjusted aerobic exercise activities (5 studies), individual lifestyle counselling vs. control condition (2 RCTs), and dietetic counselling and practical training of cooking and shopping (1 study). Physical activity and practical dietetic interventions seem to be more efficient than lifestyle counselling. However, the results shall be taken with caution due to the non-randomized designs and other methodologically deficits in the majority of the included studies.