PIA investigates treatment pathways, often using pilot studies and feasibility studies, as well as RCT studies and implementation studies.
Improved treatment for substance-dependent individuals is one such area, and this project contributes to patient-centred clinical research on this patient group.
Building on previous studies that show a positive correlation between physical fitness and mental health among substance users, we wish to investigate whether early initiation of physical activity will lead to improvements in physical and mental health and cognitive functioning, thereby enhancing the effects of other treatments.
Research Questions
- What is the level of physical fitness among LAR patients?
- How does exercise affect the patient's physical fitness and cognitive functioning?
- How does physical activity influence abstinence/the degree of sobriety during the period?
- How does physical activity affect mental health and belief in coping?
Using physical (lactate and oxygen tests) and cognitive tests, we will measure the baseline levels of LAR patients wishing to participate in the project before we commence. Participants will be randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group and the control group. While the control group will not exercise beyond their usual activities, the experimental group will participate in training three times a week. The duration and intensity of the training will gradually increase to avoid injuries and to foster motivation. All training sessions will be recorded in a diary, noting the type of exercise, duration, intensity, and any other remarks.
After three and six months, we will test again. The tests will be similar to those conducted at the pre-measurement. It is important that the post-measurement tests are carried out identically to the pre-measurement tests to achieve valid results. In addition to cognitive tests and assessments of physical fitness, participants will be given a questionnaire that examines qualitative components.
