The Influence Of Aerobic Exercise On Women With Schizophrenia: A Comparative Study Between Women And Chronic Schizophrenia That Receive Antipsychotic And Aerobic Exercise And Women With Schizophrenia Who Only Get Antipsychotics

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The Effect of Aerobic Gymnastics on Women with Schizophrenia: A Comparative Study

Introduction

Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, causing significant disability and impacting the quality of life of patients. While antipsychotic treatment is often necessary, it is not always effective in managing all symptoms. Therefore, additional therapeutic approaches are needed, and one of those gaining attention is physical activity, particularly aerobic exercise, which is thought to have a positive impact on the mental condition of schizophrenia sufferers. This study aims to evaluate the effect of aerobic exercise on positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS) scores in schizophrenia patients who receive antipsychotic treatment with and without the addition of aerobic exercises.

Background

Schizophrenia is a complex mental disorder characterized by positive, negative, cognitive, and other symptoms that significantly impact the quality of life of patients. The disorder affects individuals of all ages, but it is most prevalent among young adults. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), schizophrenia is one of the main causes of disability among individuals aged 20 to 40 years. Despite the availability of antipsychotic treatment, this disorder remains a significant public health concern due to its high prevalence and impact on individuals and society.

The Importance of Physical Activity in Schizophrenia Treatment

Physical activity, particularly aerobic exercise, has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health, including reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Aerobic exercise has been found to stimulate the release of endorphins, also known as "feel-good" hormones, which can help alleviate symptoms of mental health disorders. Additionally, physical activity has been shown to improve cognitive function, including attention and memory, which are often impaired in individuals with schizophrenia.

Research Purposes

This study aims to evaluate the effect of aerobic exercise on PANSS scores in schizophrenia patients who receive antipsychotic treatment with and without the addition of aerobic exercises. The study will investigate whether the addition of aerobic exercise to antipsychotic treatment can improve symptoms of schizophrenia, as measured by PANSS scores.

Method

This study uses a non-randomized pre-post test experimental design involving 34 female subjects aged between 18 and 40 years who were hospitalized. The subjects were divided into two groups: intervention groups that received antipsychotic treatment and followed aerobic exercises, and control groups that only received antipsychotic treatment. The intervention group participated in aerobic exercise sessions three times a week for 12 weeks, while the control group did not participate in any physical activity.

Results

The results showed that there were significant differences in the decline in PANSS scores between the two groups. The median decrease in the positive scale PANSS score in the intervention group was 4 (range 2-7), whereas in the control group, it was only 2 (range 1-4), with a value of P = 0.001. For negative scale PANSS scores, the median decline in the intervention group was 2 (range 1-5), while the control group remained at 2 (range 1-4), with p <0.001. The average total decline in PANSS score also showed a significant result, where the intervention group had decreased an average of 13.35 ± 2.76, while the control group was only 7.88 ± 1.93, with p <0.001.

Conclusion

From the results of this study, it can be concluded that aerobic exercise has a significant influence on improving PANSS scores in schizophrenia patients who receive antipsychotics, compared to those who only get antipsychotic treatment. This shows that the addition of physical activity, such as aerobic exercise, can be an effective therapeutic approach to improving the mental conditions of schizophrenia patients, thereby improving the quality of their lives. Therefore, the integration of aerobic exercise in a rehabilitation program for schizophrenia patients can be considered as a valuable therapeutic strategy.

Implications for Practice

The findings of this study have significant implications for practice. Health workers should consider incorporating physical activity, particularly aerobic exercise, into the treatment plan for schizophrenia patients. This can be done through the development of rehabilitation programs that include physical activity as a therapeutic approach. Additionally, health workers should educate patients and their families about the benefits of physical activity for mental health and encourage them to engage in regular physical activity.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations. The sample size was relatively small, and the study only included female subjects. Future studies should aim to recruit larger samples and include both male and female subjects. Additionally, the study only measured PANSS scores as an outcome measure. Future studies should consider using other outcome measures, such as quality of life and cognitive function, to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the effects of aerobic exercise on schizophrenia patients.

Future Research Directions

Future research should aim to build on the findings of this study by investigating the effects of aerobic exercise on other mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety. Additionally, future studies should aim to explore the mechanisms by which aerobic exercise exerts its effects on mental health, including the role of endorphins and other neurotransmitters.
Frequently Asked Questions: The Effect of Aerobic Exercise on Women with Schizophrenia

Q: What is schizophrenia, and how common is it?

A: Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by positive, negative, cognitive, and other symptoms that significantly impact the quality of life of patients. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), schizophrenia is one of the main causes of disability among individuals aged 20 to 40 years.

Q: What is the current treatment for schizophrenia?

A: The current treatment for schizophrenia typically involves antipsychotic medication, which can help manage symptoms but is not always effective in managing all symptoms. Additionally, therapy and counseling may be recommended to help patients cope with the disorder.

Q: How does aerobic exercise affect schizophrenia symptoms?

A: Aerobic exercise has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health, including reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. In the context of schizophrenia, aerobic exercise has been found to improve symptoms, as measured by PANSS scores.

Q: What are the benefits of incorporating aerobic exercise into schizophrenia treatment?

A: Incorporating aerobic exercise into schizophrenia treatment can have several benefits, including:

  • Improved symptoms, as measured by PANSS scores
  • Improved cognitive function, including attention and memory
  • Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression
  • Improved quality of life

Q: Who can benefit from aerobic exercise in schizophrenia treatment?

A: Anyone with schizophrenia can benefit from aerobic exercise in their treatment plan. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program.

Q: What type of aerobic exercise is best for schizophrenia patients?

A: Any type of aerobic exercise that is enjoyable and sustainable for the individual is best. Examples of aerobic exercises include:

  • Brisk walking
  • Jogging or running
  • Swimming
  • Cycling
  • Dancing

Q: How often should schizophrenia patients engage in aerobic exercise?

A: Schizophrenia patients should aim to engage in aerobic exercise at least three times a week, for at least 30 minutes per session.

Q: Can aerobic exercise be used as a standalone treatment for schizophrenia?

A: No, aerobic exercise should not be used as a standalone treatment for schizophrenia. It should be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as antipsychotic medication and therapy.

Q: What are the potential risks of incorporating aerobic exercise into schizophrenia treatment?

A: While aerobic exercise is generally safe, there are potential risks to consider, including:

  • Overexertion
  • Dehydration
  • Injury
  • Interference with medication

Q: How can healthcare professionals incorporate aerobic exercise into schizophrenia treatment?

A: Healthcare professionals can incorporate aerobic exercise into schizophrenia treatment by:

  • Recommending exercise programs to patients
  • Providing education on the benefits of exercise for mental health
  • Encouraging patients to engage in regular physical activity
  • Monitoring patients' progress and adjusting treatment plans accordingly

Q: What are the next steps for research on the effects of aerobic exercise on schizophrenia?

A: Future research should aim to:

  • Investigate the effects of aerobic exercise on other mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety
  • Explore the mechanisms by which aerobic exercise exerts its effects on mental health
  • Develop exercise programs tailored to the needs of schizophrenia patients
  • Investigate the long-term effects of aerobic exercise on schizophrenia symptoms.