Effectiveness of a Fitbit Based Sleep and Physical Activity Intervention in an Early Intervention Psychosis (EIP) Service

Abstract

Purpose: Compared to levels in the general population, people with experiences of psychosis have poorer physical fitness, more sedentary behaviour, lower physical activity, more sleep problems, and a higher incidence of insomnia. The aim of the current study was to examine the feasibility and impact of an intervention with the goal of addressing these issues. Method: Design: intervention with outcome measure data collection, with no control group. Forty-nine early intervention psychosis (EIP) service patients took part in an intervention: provision of a Fitbit, Fitbit software apps, sleep hygiene, and physical activity guidance, and three discussion sessions with clinicians. The sample consisted of 29 males and 20 females, with age range of 17 - 54 years, and average age of 29.5 years. Measures used were Fitbit activity and sleep data, and self-rated Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS) and Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS). Results: WEMWBS scores significantly improved, with a medium effect size. PANAS negative affect (NA) dropped significantly. Analysis of Fitbit activity and sleep data yielded non-significant results. Conclusion: The intervention was acceptable to EIP patients and is feasible. Improvements in mental wellbeing and negative affect indicate the positive impact of the intervention on mental health. EIP services should consider assessing sleep quality and physical activity/exercise levels, and using this study’s intervention to promote wellbeing and mental health within recovery focused practice. Further research could be undertaken through a sufficiently powered randomised control trial (RCT) comparing this intervention and treatment as usual (TAU).