People living with complex mental health disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder tend to die prematurely; on average, 10 to 15 years earlier than the general population. This is mainly attributable to physical health conditions that often develop as side effects of antipsychotic medications.  

Given these alarming statistics, it is crucial to integrate comprehensive physical health care for people with severe mental illness, including addressing dietary habits, promoting physical activity, and helping people to quit smoking. When these issues are effectively addressed, they can have a profound impact on both the physical and mental health of people living with severe mental illness. 

The KBIM(Gardens) suite of physical health resources has been created to assist clinicians and consumers to address physical health conditions associated with severe mental ill health and its treatment.

They include:

• Updated decision guides to help mental health clinicians determine when and how to intervene to support patients’ physical health
• Training videos for mental health clinicians about nutrition, physical activity and tobacco treatment
• Resources for consumers to set goals and monitor their progress in multiple physical health domains

Implementing support programs that focus on improving diet and exercise can help people develop healthier lifestyles, which not only contribute to better physical health but also have a positive impact on their mental well-being. Regular exercise has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve cognitive function, and enhance overall mood and self-esteem. Similarly, adopting a nutritious diet can provide the necessary nutrients for physical health while also positively influencing mental health outcomes.  

Targeted support for smoking cessation is also vital, as smoking rates among people with mental health conditions are significantly higher compared to the general population. By offering tailored support programs, access to nicotine replacement therapies, and behavioural interventions, healthcare providers can help people with severe mental illness quit smoking. This can significantly reduce the risk of developing smoking-related diseases, enhance cardiovascular health, and improve overall life expectancy.  

Reducing and quitting smoking improves cognitive function and mood, and reduces negative mental health symptoms. It can also reduce the required dose of antipsychotic medication, reducing medication side-effects.  

Learn more about the Keeping the Body in Mind(gardens) nutritional aspect, here: Keeping the Body in Mind(gardens) training video: Nutrition (youtube.com) 

Learn more about the Keeping the Body in Mind(gardens) physical activity aspect, here: Keeping the Body in Mind(gardens) training video: Physical Activity (youtube.com) 

Project Status

This project is ongoing, with Mindgardens actively exploring opportunities to rollout nation-wide clinician training and education for the resource package. 

Funding Sources

• NSW Mental Health Commission
• Mindgardens Neuroscience Network