Meaningful Movement: Understanding and Accessing Physical Activity Among People with Severe Mental Illness–A Photovoice Study

People with severe mental illness are less physically active than the general population and face higher risks of cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes. The aim of this study was to explore how people with severe mental illness understand physical activity and what barriers and facilitators they experience. Using the methods of photovoice and co-creation, we engaged people with severe mental illness as co-researchers. The data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. The method enabled participants to reconceptualise physical activity, thereby highlighting it as a socially embedded practice. A photovoice exhibition showcased our result and gave voice to the target group. The overarching theme of ‘Meaningful Movement’ described the ways in which physical activity is part of daily life, emotional well-being, embodied experience, social belonging and identity. Two themes, ‘Interaction with Other People’ and ‘Interaction with Nature and Animals’, showed the ways in which access to physical activity is shaped by complex environmental interactions. The participants described limited access to nature, animals, and nuanced understandings of physical activity during psychiatric hospitalisation. These structural barriers limit opportunities for people with severe mental illness to engage in physical activity and constrain professionals in providing person-centred care.