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While physical activity is considered an important part of treatment for people with schizophrenia, little is known about their views on how to successfully commit to an exercise habit over time. This study explored experiences of motivators to start and maintain regular exercise among people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Five men and six women with schizophrenia spectrum disorders, 25–62 years old, who had been exercising for at least 6 months, were interviewed using a semi-structured guide. Interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis. The positive experiences that the participants immediately felt in their bodies were the main motivator for exercise. These experiences were recalled and longed for in between bouts and consisted of physical sensations, mental well-being, and improved self-esteem. This experience-based driving force enabled the participants to pursue exercise despite sometimes feeling low, lacking resources, or struggling with side effects of medication. The positive change in body experience following exercise could be emphasised more when promoting exercise to people with schizophrenia. Exploring the instant body responses can keep up the drive and create hope for more long-term health effects. Physiotherapists have an important role in guiding patients to recognise and interpret body experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most people with common mental disorders are working despite symptoms. This study explores individuals' experiences of a work-directed rehabilitation, provided by occupational therapists and physiotherapists, aiming to promote work capacity in persons with common mental disorders. A qualitative content analysis was used, and 11 women and 8 men with depression or anxiety disorder were interviewed. They were 25–66 years old, had different occupations and were working full or part-time. The participants experienced a process interpreted as Increasing belief in one's capacity through supported reflection and practice. This theme reflects the shifting between "reflecting" and "doing" through rehabilitation and the growing hope for change. The increasing belief in one's capacity was developed through three stages, comprised of the categories To be supported by a professional, To realise things about oneself and To try new strategies for change. Strategies suggested by occupational therapists and physiotherapists have the potential to promote work capacity in people who are working while depressed and anxious. The results may deepen the understanding among rehabilitation professionals about the importance of a person-centred approach to people with common mental disorders, and to combine reflection and practical exercises to support the development of work-related strategies. Work-directed rehabilitation provided by occupational therapists and/or physiotherapists is beneficial to people with common mental disorders. Rehabilitation professionals should focus on facilitating self-efficacy among people with common mental disorders. An individualised person-centred approach seems important in order to initiate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Infibulation is the most pervasive form of female genital cutting. Infibulated women face difficulties such as obstruction of urine and menstrual blood flow, sexual problems, and birth complications, and may therefore need medical defibulation. This study explores the lived experiences of young migrant women from Somalia and their views on undergoing medical defibulation in Sweden. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted using phenomenological lifeworld research. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with nine young women originating from Somalia, now resident in Sweden. The interviews were analysed to reveal the meaning of the phenomenon of infibulation. Results: The essential meaning of the phenomenon is characterized by a limbo regarding both infibulation and defibulation. There is a strong desire both to handle the Swedish perspective on infibulation and to stay with the Somalian cultural values. These women are being exposed to a tacit tradition that makes it hard to relate to the possibility of medical defibulation. As a result, the women perceive the possibility to undergo medical defibulation as limited or non-existent. Conclusions: Healthcare professionals can be a support to encourage women in need of medical defibulation to reflect on traditional ideals concerning infibulation and defibulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]