Physical Activity in Mental Health Training Lags Behind

In Aotearoa New Zealand, the connection between physical activity and mental wellbeing is clear, but its application in healthcare settings is limited. A recent survey of educators who teach future mental health professionals reveals a gap in training.

The survey involved 90 educators from various fields, including psychology and nursing. Surprisingly, less than a third of these educators reported that their courses covered physical activity promotion. Even fewer believed it was essential for professional registration.

So, why the oversight? Many educators cited that it wasn't a priority, was outside their scope of practice, or there simply wasn't enough room in the curriculum.

However, there's a growing consensus that this training should be evidence-based, involve direct promotion of physical activity to students, and incorporate Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles. By doing so, future professionals can be equipped to tackle both mental and physical health disparities.

This highlights the need for educators and professional bodies to work together to make physical activity a priority in mental health practice. By integrating Te Ao Māori into education, professionals can be empowered to address health disparities more effectively.