Hur samvarierar fysisk aktivitet med upplevd livskvalité bland fyra individer med psykisk ohälsa : ”Livet är en dans, ibland”

Sammanfattning: Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate the significance of physical activity as a treatment for four individuals with mental illness. Can physical activity as a form of treatment coexist with an individual´s physical and mental health, quality of life and other components of life? - Primary research question: “How does physical activity coexist with perceived quality of life in four individuals with mental illness?” - Secondary research question: How does physical activity coexist with physical health?” - Secondary research question: “How does physical activity coexist with mental health?” - Secondary research question: “What impact does physical activity as a form of treatment have on the individual´s other aspects of life?” (Unemployment, home sitters, social exclusion, socioeconomic vulnerability, body perception). - Secondary research question: “How does the individual experience the immediate and long-term effects of physical activity?” Method: The study included three women and one man between the ages of 23-55. The participants live with conditions and diagnoses that primarily affect their mental health and all have undergone treatment with physical activity as a single form or in combination with therapy and medication. Physical activity on prescription was offered through primary care or respective psychiatric clinics, with primary activities being dance, strength, and conditioning training. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to gain an in-depth understanding of the participants' experiences with physical activity as a treatment and whether it affected their quality of life as well as their physical and mental health. Results: Physical activity had a positive effect on quality of life, as the activity itself created meaning, structure, and zest for life, thus having a positive effect on respondents' daily lives. Physical activity was a leading factor in increased motivation, reduced social exclusion, and reduced disease symptoms that were described as challenges before treatment began. Leader-led activity was considered a crucial factor for compliance. Conclusion: When designing treatment plans for individuals with mental illness, physical activity should be considered as a primary or complementary component. One possible effect of this can be improved quality of life, relief of illness conditions, and improved general health. A structured leader-led group training is considered advantageous for compliance and implementation of physical activity, and furthermore, the sense of community in group training was seen to create meaning, structure, and value for these four respondents who participated in the study.