Description
Despite growing evidence supporting the benefits of physical activity (PA) for mental wellbeing of children and young people (CYP), there remains a gap in training and practice when it comes to integrating PA into therapeutic practice, as highlighted by the systematic scoping review in the previous chapter. This study aimed to explore how practitioners in the UK perceive and engage with PA as part of psychological support for CYP aged 4–18 years. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 mental health practitioners. The data, analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, revealed that while practitioners acknowledge the potential of PA to enhance mental health outcomes, they face barriers such as a lack of formal training, limited institutional support, and logistical constraints in implementing PA interventions. Participants further emphasised the need for comprehensive training in PA integration, multidisciplinary collaboration, and stronger institutional policies to facilitate PA integration. Additionally, practitioners highlighted concerns about the sustainability of PA interventions, emphasising the importance of personalised, team-based approaches and continued engagement with families and communities. This study underscores the need for further development in both practice and policy to promote the integration of physical activity into mental health support for CYP. The findings offer valuable recommendations for enhancing practitioner training, fostering collaboration, and ensuring long-term sustainability of PA-based interventions in therapeutic practice.| Period | 3 Dec 2025 |
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| Held at | Physical Activity for Health Research Centre , United Kingdom |
| Degree of Recognition | National |