Event description

This webinar will explore the critical role of physical health in people living with mental illness, and how exercise physiology and integrated models of care can address longstanding health inequities. Drawing on evidence from the literature and the Keeping the Body in Mind (KBIM) programme, presenters will outline key findings on physical activity, cardiometabolic risk, and behavioural health interventions. The session will then highlight current translational work occurring through Mindgardens Neuroscience Network, including initiatives targeting vaping cessation, vaccination uptake, lung cancer screening, and food security. Practical implementation insights will be shared to support clinicians and services seeking to embed physical health care within routine mental health practice.

This webinar is organised by Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA), the nation’s leading voice on exercise and sports science. ESSA governs and represents university-qualified professionals who support Australians to reach their health and performance goals.

Presenters

Dr Hamish Fibbins is the Director Translational Research for Mindgardens, working with research leads and clinical services to implement research into practice at the system and service levels. In addition to supporting the strategic development of the organisation, Hamish leads the direction and management of the Mindgardens Psychosis Flagship and its research portfolio. In addition to completing a PhD with the UNSW Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hamish has worked clinically as a mental health exercise physiologist and in health services management as a quality improvement advisor. He currently holds a Conjoint Senior Lecturer position with UNSW, Sydney.

Law Edwards is an Exercise Physiologist with ten years of experience supporting vulnerable populations across mental health, justice, and community health sectors. Since completing their Master’s, Law has championed integrated, patient-centred care, including establishing the Forensic Hospital’s first physical health multidisciplinary team. Now serving as a Clinical Liaison Officer with Mindgardens, Law manages a diverse portfolio of translational research projects within SESLHD mental health services. Their work spans key initiatives in physical health, vaccination rates, lung cancer screening, vaping interventions and education support for youth. Law leverages robust project management and clinical expertise to seamlessly embed innovative, evidence-based research into frontline clinical services.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Describe the evidence base supporting physical activity interventions for people living with mental illness
• Understand the development and core components of the KBIM model of care
• Identify key translational initiatives addressing physical health inequalities in mental health populations
• Apply practical strategies to support implementation of physical health interventions within their own service context
• Recognise the role of exercise physiology within multidisciplinary mental health care