Effects of a Motivational Intervention on the Effectiveness and Sustainability of Sports and Exercise Therapy in Inpatient Psychiatric Care

Abstract

Objective Reinforcement and sustainability of sports and exercise therapy in inpatient depression treatment. Methods Randomized controlled study with 3 measurement times: t 0 admission to the study, t 1 after four weeks, t 2 two months after discharge. 96 inpatients with depressive disorders (ICD-10 F32, F33) were randomly assigned to an intervention group (IG) or a control group (KG). In addition to sports and exercise therapy (KG), the IG received an educational and motivational session on the importance of sports and exercise, as well as a motivational final discussion. Results Endurance performance and physical fitness improved more significantly in the IG than in the CG over the 3 measurement times. The motivational final discussion was rated as more helpful. Discussion The intervention was well accepted by the patients and partially increased the effects of sports and exercise therapy. Not only psychological aspects of depression treatment were influenced, but also measurable physical effects. Conclusion The practical and time-efficient motivational intervention in inpatient psychiatric care can complement sports and exercise therapy for depressive patients.