Abstract
IntroductionThere is a need for interventions to address the escalating mental health burden in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Implementation of physical activity (PA) within the rehabilitation of people with mental health problems (PMHP) could reduce the burden and facilitate recovery. The objective of the current review was to explore (1) the role of PA within mental health policies of SSA countries, and (2) the current research evidence for PA to improve mental health in SSA.MethodsWe screened the Mental Health Atlas and MiNDbank for mental health policies in SSA countries and searched PubMed for relevant studies on PA in PMHP in SSA.ResultsSixty-nine percent (=33/48) of SSA countries have a dedicated mental health policy. Two of 22 screened mental health policies included broad physical activity recommendations. There is clear evidence for the role of PA in the prevention and rehabilitation of depression in SSA.ConclusionDespite the existing evidence, PA is largely a neglected rehabilitation modality in the mental health care systems of SSA. Continued education of existing staff, training of specialized professionals and integration of PA for mental health in public health awareness programs are needed to initiate and improve PA programs within the mental health care systems of SSA.
Highlights
There is a need for interventions to address the escalating mental health burden in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)
More in detail we explored: (a) whether physical activity priorities and recommendations were based on available scientific evidence, (b) whether physical activity recommendations were defined in terms of frequency, intensity, the time, and the type of physical activity (FITT-principle), and (c) how physical activity interventions should be implemented in daily care
Two (Namibia and Uganda) of 22 screened mental health policies or plans included physical activity priorities or recommendations. None of these recommendations were based on scientific evidence, defined physical activity according to frequency, intensity, type or time, nor defined any implementation strategies
Summary
Mental and substance use disorders are the leading cause of years lived with disability (YLD) in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), accounting for 19% of all disability-associated burden (YLD) [1]. In terms of mental and substance use disorders, all SSA regions will experience an increase in burden of approximately 130% and it is estimated that the YLDs will rise from between 20 to 45 million YLDs by 2050 [2]. By 2050 mental and substance use disorders may be equivalent to approximately two thirds the YLDs of the entire non-communicable diseases group (67 million YLDs) of SSA [3]. The strong and often bidirectional relationships of mental disorders with substance use disorders and the associated increased risk for accidents and injuries emphasizes the critical role of a rigorous mental health policy in SSA [3]
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