Psychologists are being encouraged to make physical activity part of routine mental health treatment, following new research led by the University of the Sunshine Coast.
The international review found that while physical activity is widely recognised for helping reduce symptoms linked to depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions, it is still not commonly integrated into everyday psychological care.
Researchers say psychologists are well placed to support patients in becoming more active because of their experience in behaviour change strategies and motivational techniques.
Lead author Indi Dissanayake, a psychologist and PhD student involved in the study, said many mental health professionals already encourage people to exercise, though fewer provide structured support aimed at helping patients maintain long-term activity.
“Psychologists are already experts in behaviour change techniques. So, they have the skills to help people build motivation, boost confidence and improve enjoyment, all of which are often barriers to staying active,” he said.
The research proposes the use of a modified “5As model” to help psychologists incorporate physical activity into therapy sessions. The framework encourages clinicians to ask about activity levels, advise patients about mental health benefits linked to movement, agree on achievable goals, assist with barriers and arrange follow-up support or referrals where appropriate.
Researchers argue that adding physical activity support into therapy could improve patient wellbeing while complementing established psychological treatments.
Associate Professor Daniel Fassnacht, one of the study’s co-authors, said the approach was not intended to turn psychologists into exercise trainers.
“It’s about using the tools psychologists already have, like goal setting and motivation techniques, to help people get started and stick with it,” he said.
He added that collaboration between psychologists and exercise professionals could strengthen patient support, particularly for people who may require tailored exercise guidance.
The study also raised questions about whether psychology training currently gives enough attention to physical activity and its role in mental health treatment.
Clinical psychologist and co-author Dr Kathina Ali said stronger education in this area could help clinicians safely incorporate movement into therapy plans.
Mental health organisations and public health experts have increasingly highlighted the role of exercise in improving emotional wellbeing, sleep quality and stress management. Previous research has linked regular physical activity with lower rates of depression and anxiety, though experts caution that exercise alone may not replace clinical care for people with more complex mental health conditions.
The paper, published in the Psychology of Sport and Exercise journal, involved researchers from Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States and Europe reviewing evidence on physical activity and psychological care.
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