Physical Activity to Reduce Diabetes Risk in Serious Mental Illness

Physical Activity to Reduce Diabetes Risk in Serious Mental Illness: PARCS Pilot Study

The aim of this project is to trial the protocol of a park-based physical activity (PA) intervention in adults with severe mental illness (SMI) in a community mental health center's peer support program.

Aim 1: Test the feasibility and acceptability of a park-based PA intervention led by Certified Peer Specialists (CPS) and adapted for adults with SMI. Rationale: Park-based interventions led by CPSs represent a novel approach to increase program satisfaction and adherence to PA behavior change in persons with SMI. Hypothesis 1A: Most (80%) people offered the intervention will participate most of the time (≥2 day/week). Hypothesis 1B: CPSs and SMI patients will express satisfaction with the program (6 on an 8-point scale). Aim 2: Test the effectiveness of a park-based PA intervention led by CPSs on increasing PA and improving fitness in adults with SMI. Rationale: Park-based PA is associated with greater intensity and duration of PA, better fitness, and less obesity and depression, issues that are especially problematic for adults with SMI. Hypothesis 2A: People enrolled in the intervention will engage in more PA than at baseline (90min moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA)/week). Hypothesis 2B: The intervention will result in improved fitness (6 min walk test) relative to baseline.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Authorized for peer group treatment through the Serenity behavioral health facility
• Medically cleared for participation
• Able to act as their own legal guardian

Exclusion Criteria:

• Age under 18