Evaluation of Physical Activity Habits in Patients with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

• Published in: Clinics (São Paulo, Brazil) Brazil), 2008-08, Vol.63 (4), p.473-478
• Main Authors: de Assis, Marcio Antonio, de Mello, Marcelo Feijó, Scorza, Fulvio Alexandre, Cadrobbi, Mariana Pupo, Schooedl, Aline Ferii, Silva, Sergio Gomes da, de Albuquerque, Marly, Silva, Antonio Carlos da, Arida, Ricardo Mario
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adaptation, Psychological; Adult; Brazil; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; Exercise; Female; Habits; Humans; Leisure Activities - psychology; Male; MEDICINE, GENERAL & INTERNAL; Motivation; Motor Activity - physiology; Patient quality of life; Physical activity habits; Posttraumatic Stress Disorder; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; Quality of Life; Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic - psychology; Stress, Psychological
• ISSN: 1807-5932; 1980-5322; 1980-5322
• DOI: 10.1590/S1807-59322008000400010

In this study, we present data from a survey that aimed to assess the physical activity habits of adult Brazilian patients with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Fifty male and female patients with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder participated in this study. The mean age at onset was 37±12 years, and the mean time between diagnosis and follow-up was 3.6±4.2 years. Substantial changes in physical activity habits were observed following the onset of PTSD. While more than half of the patients participated in physical activities prior to Posttraumatic Stress Disorder onset, there was a significant reduction in their participation afterwards. The justifications for stopping physical activities or sport participation were lack of time and lack of motivation. Several studies have shown that physical exercise decreases reverts symptoms of psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety and social isolation. We could therefore hypothesize that patients with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder who exercise should experience the same benefits. Our findings demonstrated that patients with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder have low levels of participation in sports or physical activities.