In SHAPE
Wellness for Individuals with Mental Illness

Studies show that individuals with severe and persistent mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bi-polar disorder are at increased risk of chronic diseases including diabetes, hypertension, cardio-vascular disease, and nicotine dependence. Even with appropriate therapy and psychotropic drugs, they have a lifespan that is 10-20 years shorter than that of the general population.

In SHAPE is a wellness program for individuals with mental illness. The program enrolls adults with mental illness in community wellness activities such as exercise and dance classes, weight loss programs, and smoking cessation. The goal is to improve physical health and quality of life, reduce the risk of preventable diseases, and enhance the life expectancy of individuals with severe mental illnesses.

Each In SHAPE participant works with a trained health mentor to create a Self Health Action Plan for Empowerment (SHAPE) that includes physical activity, healthy eating goals, and attention to medical needs. The mentor helps participants implement their SHAPE plan by encouraging participation in a variety of activities that already exist in the community and attending the activities with participants until they feel comfortable going alone. Every 12 weeks, participants attend a celebration where they receive incentive items and verbal recognition for their efforts.

A pilot research evaluation of 98 participants completed by Dartmouth Psychiatric Research Center found significant improvement. Participants reported:

• increased number of hours exercising per week,
• increased overall activity and participation in vigorous activities,
• feeling more satisfied with their physical fitness,
• having significantly greater confidence in social situations, and
• reductions in waist circumference, in blood pressure, and in depressive symptoms.

The successful pilot was conducted by Monadnock Family Services in Keene, NH. Supported by a grant from the Local Initiative Funding Partnership, a competitive grant-making program of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, In SHAPE is broadening its reach serve hundreds of individuals in surrounding towns.

Grantee:
Monadnock Family Services
17 93rd Street
Keene NH 03431
Phone (603) 283-1675

Learn more about Program Area: Vulnerable Populations