Preliminary results of the Belgian lifestyle program ENERGIE on weight in patients with psychiatric disorders

Abstract

Introduction:

Life style intervention has shown in the general population to influence weight gain and delay metabolic complications.

Methods:

ENERGIE is a lifestyle program adapted for psychiatric patients. Interactive open group sessions of 1h/week provide information about healthy food and physical activities. Additionally healthy activities are organized. Patients can give their consent for anonymous data collection.

Results:

194 patients (56% male) of all age categories have sent their follow up sheet for data entry. The median duration of the program was 80 days (0-223). The majority of patients were treated for psychosis (55%), 23% for mood disorder and 22% for other psychiatric conditions. Most patients were taking an antipsychotic drug (90%), 57% an antidepressant and 29% a mood stabilizer. BMI at baseline was normal in 25%. 33% of the patients showed overweight and 42% obesity. More females then males were obese. 66% of the patients did complete the program and only in 2% interruption was due to dissatisfaction.

Mean weight was 84.4 kg at start of the program and 83.3 kg at the end. 7% had changed BMI category from obese to overweight (from 42% to 35%). Patients (74%) and nurses (50%) judged that it helped in controlling weight.

Conclusion:

Lifestyle programs can be adapted for patients with psychiatric disorders and contribute in the short term to control weight.