MAY 12 LETTERS write to reply


Do you have a strong opinion or disagree with somebody else’s views on the industry? If so, we’d love to hear from you – email: healthclub@leisuremedia.com


fi tness industry: a track record in mental health The recent editor’s letter on mental health drew attention to an important issue that often falls under the radar, in contrast to headline epidemics such as obesity. There is certainly a role for our sector in treating and preventing conditions from stress to Alzheimer’s. That said, any physical activity provider


must recognise that the typical barriers to getting active – such as lack of time, enthusiasm or confidence – will be significantly increased in a depressed individual or a person under significant stress. We must develop new approaches when dealing with such populations; in contrast to the editor’s letter, the FIA Research Institute is doing exactly this. In its pilot study, the institute evaluated


Referral schemes often focus on physical, rather than mental, outcomes


there is no health without mental health


I read your editor’s letter (HCM April 12, p3) with great interest. How delightful to see mental health being given the attention it deserves! Mental health has always been the


poor relation of physical health, with referral schemes often focused on physical outcomes. Yet not only are physical and mental health inextricably connected, but mental health outcomes have also been shown to be even more significant than physical outcomes. Going into the community and


asking the right questions, so we truly understand people’s needs, is key. A great example is the Bristol Active Life Project, which engages people with mental health conditions. Since 2009, they have delivered an estimated 1,918 sessions to over 600 referrals. Turning the focus away from weight


loss, emphasising the feelgood factor and happiness, may also help reverse


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the industry’s obsession with body image. Central YMCA is currently leading the national Body Confidence campaign and found that one in four people are depressed about their bodies – a contributory factor for both eating disorders and steroid abuse. Central YMCA also provides


secretariat to the parliamentary group which informs policy. The group’s forthcoming report is likely to significantly impact future policy and practice across a range of organisations. Personally, as an advocate for mental


health, I believe it is indeed – as the national campaign urges – ‘Time to Change’. The fitness industry has a fundamental role to play in improving mental health and wellbeing. As the 2011 white paper suggests: “There is no health without mental health.” debbie lawrence teacher/consultant, debbie l lawrence ltd


Read Health Club Management online at healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital


individuals’ quality of life using the SF 36 Questionnaire, which includes all aspects of mental capacity, and also delivered physical activity counselling to those who did not wish to participate in a gym-based programme. Mental and physiological improvements were seen among those who increased their physical activity. Furthermore, exercise referral has


often focused on mental health. Indeed, schemes that focus on depression, stress or anxiety actually have the best available evidence base. The imminent publication of the FIA’s new set of exercise referral standards will help to further communicate this evidence to GPs. david stalker ceo, fi a


Mental health: A role for fi tness may 2012 © cybertrek 2012


MAY 2012


MONKEY BUSIMESS IMAGES / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM


MONKEY BUSIMESS IMAGES / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM


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