Barriers to and facilitators for a healthy lifestyle in people with mood and anxiety disorders: a qualitative study preceding the start of a multicomponent lifestyle intervention in secondary care

Abstract

People with mood and/or anxiety disorders often experience compromised mental and physical health, but these can be enhanced through multicomponent lifestyle interventions (MLIs). However, current MLIs are not sufficiently adapted to address the specific motivational challenges faced by these individuals. This study aimed to identify facilitators and barriers to achieving a healthy lifestyle in these patients, including their expected challenges and supports when participating in an MLI within secondary care.

We conducted a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with sixteen patients mood and/or anxiety disorders, and ten of their buddies, just before or at the beginning of their participation in our MLI LIVES-SC. Thematic analysis was used for analyzing data.

Thematic analysis identified four themes: health (mental and physical), awareness and motivation, social support, and environment. Physical health only posed barriers, while mental health could be both a barrier and a facilitator. Increased awareness of physical health enhanced motivation for lifestyle changes, especially through practical exercises. Social support, both at home and work, was crucial, with patients valuing a strong support system. For environmental factors, patients and buddies mentioned that buddies found that having a structured life with financial freedom supports a healthy lifestyle.

This qualitative study highlights how physical and mental health challenges, combined with environmental factors and social context, shape the ability of patients with mental health issues to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Despite various barriers, patients were motivated to change their lifestyle and valued the personalised, practical approach of the LIVES-SC intervention.