How exercise can help people with mental health problems.

The researcher describes the outcomes gained by a young man with a diagnosis of chronic schizophrenia who participated in a 12-week progressive exercise programme. Using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale and the Nurses Observational Scale for Inpatient Evaluation, the researcher was able to evaluate any changes in the patient. There were significant changes in his psychological functioning, communication, animation, personal interest, motivation and insight into his body image. His physical fitness levels also improved and he showed less motor retardation and less body tension.