The role of sport and exercise in recovery from mental illness: Two case studies

D Carless, K Douglas

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticle (Academic Journal)peer-review

    41 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Despite continuing interest in the physical activity-mental health relationship, few studies have recently been published concerning the effects of exercise for men with serious mental illness. This study helps fill this gap through an interpretive approach that explores how sport and exercise can contribute to recovery from mental illness. Case studies of two men's experiences are presented that illustrate two distinct roles sport and exercise can play. In the first case, sport and exercise are central to the participant's identity and fundamental to his sense of self. For this individual, returning to sport and exercise following remission of psychotic symptoms represents a return to intrinsically meaningful activities. In the second case, sport and exercise are used as a tool or vehicle for desired outcomes that facilitate personally meaningful vocational activities. For this individual, sport and exercise represent a fresh start and a worthwhile use of time.
    Translated title of the contributionThe role of sport and exercise in recovery from mental illness: Two case studies
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)137 - 156
    Number of pages20
    JournalInternational Journal of Men's Health
    Volume7 (2)
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Aug 2008

    Bibliographical note

    Publisher: Men's Studies Press

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