PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, PSYCHIATRIC SYMPTOMS IN INDIVIDUALS WITH SEVERE MENTAL DISORDERS AND THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

The COV-SARS 2 pandemic led to setbacks for mental health of those with severe mental illness (SMI), chronic conditions responsible for significant morbidity and mortality rates. Physical activity is a well-known effective intervention in the treatment for various medical conditions. This study investigated the relationship between physical activity and anxiety, depressive and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms in patients with bipolar disorder (BD), schizophrenia (SCZ), and schizoaffective disorder during the COV-SARS 2 pandemic. Data collection was conducted through questionnaires and scales administered to patients attending a specialized psychiatry outpatient clinic in Brazil from May 2021 to July 2022. In total, 201 individuals participated in the interviews. Statistical analyses showed a prevalence of probable anxiety disorder at 28%, depressive disorder at 34%, and PTSD at 17%. Feeling exposed to stressful media news and having any psychiatric comorbidity were associated to high levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms. Lower rates of anxiety and depressive symptoms were associated with engaging in physical activity. This study suggests that physical activity is a protective factor against the manifestation of symptoms and demonstrates the ongoing need for mental health care for individuals with SMI.