Letter - Lessons learnt from a pilot bicycle program with community mental health service consumers

Abstract

Physical activity improves mental health. Building on previous work promoting cycling in the general community, we trialled an innovative cycling program for mental health service consumers in the former Sydney South West Area Health Service. The poor physical health of people with a mental illness is well documented. Increasing consumer?s physical health is difficult and the literature surrounding the issue is limited. One study found that outside activity significantly improves self esteem and mood.