Braining, Structured Physical Activity in Specialized Psychiatry for Patients with Substance Use Disorders - A Feasibility Study

Background Individuals with substance use disorders (SUD) have poor metabolic and cardiovascular health as well as high prevalence of symptoms of depression and anxiety. Regular physical activity can markedly improve these and other somatic and mental health conditions. The present study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary effects of an aerobic physical activity intervention termed Braining, in psychiatric care specialized in SUD. Methods For this uncontrolled open trial with pre-, post- and 12-month follow-up measures, 22 patients undergoing treatment for SUD and comorbid psychiatric disorders, participated in a 12-week physical activity intervention. Feasibility was assessed by adherence to exercise sessions and measurement procedures. Acceptability, credibility and negative treatment effects were measured through self-report questionnaires and reported adverse events. Physical activity was measured via accelerometry (Actigraph GT3x) and self-reporting. Psychiatric symptoms including substance use, functional status, and quality of life, were measured with self-assessments. Somatic health was evaluated through physical examinations and metabolic blood markers. Preliminary effects of psychiatric symptoms were analyzed via linear mixed models, and effects on metabolic outcomes were analyzed via t-tests. Results The mean number of exercise sessions attended was 9 (SD = 7.7). Adherence to Actigraph measurements was 73% at baseline, 46% at mid-intervention, and 32% post-intervention. Completion of self-assessments was 100% at baseline, 86% at post-intervention, and 77% at the 12-month follow-up. The mean score for the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire (CSQ-8) was 27 (SD = 3.9). No serious adverse events were reported. Significant positive changes were detected in 6 out of 8 self-assessment scales regarding psychiatric symptoms and quality of life, with effect sizes ranging from 0.28–0.77. Mean systolic blood pressure 131 (SD = 2.6) and mean diastolic blood pressure 83.5 (SD = 2.2), was significantly reduced at post-measurement (diastolic) and at follow-up (systolic). Conclusions The participants were satisfied with the Braining intervention and participated in exercise sessions and measurements, although adherence to the Actigraph measurements was low. With specified adjustments, the method was deemed feasible for future studies.