SASKATOON – The Saskatoon Health Region says exercise goes a long way helping patients with mental health disorders.
Through its Live Well program, the health region offers exercise classes for those dealing with mental health issues. Some psychoactive medications cause an increased appetite, causing a patient to eat more than they need to.
“I certainly have witnessed people gaining 20 to 30 pounds and some even more,” said Warren Albus, a health region psychiatric nurse.
One patient who experienced firsthand the adverse effects of his medication is Justin Nyffenegger. With help from the health region’s program, he lost 35 pounds.
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“Even before I even started losing the 35 pounds, I was even more before that,” he said.
While the exercise helps shed weight and trim waistlines, the program’s aim isn’t solely physical. Health region officials say increased exercise lead to more confidence and a better outlook on life.
“Getting them mentally healthy allows their body to become more physically healthy, so a lot is controlling their moods,” said Rebecca Kutinkoff, a Live Well program instructor.
“With exercise you do feel happier, you’re not as low feeling,” she added
Nyffenegger said that the increased exercise has given him more confidence in his everyday life. He completes extra workouts at home when he’s not working at a local water distillery.
“It’s so good that I can walk around with maybe even a little more confidence than I used to,” said Nyffenegger, who has been with the program for around two years.
“I’ve channeled my energy into the understanding of even getting healthier but also even having a job and working out there in a physical demanding workplace,” he added.
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