Motivation For Lifestyle Change In Mental Health Clients

2180 Words9 Pages
Motivation for Lifestyle Change in Mental Health Clients Leisa J. Crawley February Walden University Abstract The role of nutrition and exercise in the remediation of mental health symptoms has been identified in recent years. The biological, cognitive and social factors which influence the acquisition of mental health issues are discussed. A multi modal intervention plan which identifies and addresses motivational issues related to the life style change process is suggested. Motivation and Lifestyle Changes In Mental Health Clients In recent years the link between chronic and life threatening illnesses and lifestyle has become common knowledge. However, “the relationship between lifestyle and mental health has not been as widely identified or accepted within the fields of medicine or psychology (Bottomley & Mckeown 2008) until recently. Some research has emerged to link chronic health issues such as obesity (Bottomley & McKeown, 2008; Isenring, 2008; Porter & Evans, 2008), chronic fatigue syndrome (Hobday, et al, 2008) heart disease and diabetes (Isenring, 2008) with a higher rate of mental issues such as depression (Bottomley & McKeown, 2008; Jacka & Berk, 2007) and anxiety (Bottomley & McKeown, 2008). As the role of diet and nutrition is increasingly identified as an important factor in the acquisition of mental well being and as mental health clients present with more physical illness than the general population some in the field have identified “an urgent need for effective nutrition and exercise interventions for the users of mental health services” (Isenring, 2008, p. 4). However a major challenge mental health professionals may face as they design a multi faceted intervention for their clients is low or lessening motivation toward making the changes needed to promote physical as well as mental

More about Motivation For Lifestyle Change In Mental Health Clients

Open Document