Exploring the Association between Mental Health and Goal Attainment for Individuals Enrolled in a Healthy Lifestyles Program

Abstract

Background: Rates of mental illness have been rising in Canada. Lifestyle changes (e.g., increasing physical activity) can decrease symptoms of mental illness. Setting goals as part of a lifestyle program is integral in changing behavior, though previous literature surrounding the association between goal achievement and mental health is unclear. This study examined the relationship between mental health and goal achievement for individuals enrolled in a person-centered and holistic program, the healthy lifestyles program (HLP), which is rooted in principles of cognitive behavioral therapy and theories of health behavior.

Methods: A mixed methods pilot pragmatic trial was conducted to test the feasibility and effectiveness of the HLP. Participants in the intervention arm (N=15) met weekly for education and peer-support sessions and every month individually with members of the healthcare team in order to develop personalized healthcare goals and an action plan. Participants in the control arm (N=15) met every three months to set goals and an action plan with a research assistant trained in theories of health behavior. Participants in both arms completed validated health scales every 3 months. Generalized estimating equations were used to model the data.

Results: There were significant reductions in depression, insomnia, and loneliness scores between baseline and 9-months in the intervention group. Depression (β = -.331, 95% CI [-.458, -.204], p < .001), insomnia (β = -.168, 95% CI [-.325, -.010], p = .037), and loneliness (β = -.260, 95% CI [-.456, -.064], p = .009), significantly predicted mean goal attainment. Partaking in the HLP improves the likelihood that participants meet their health goals (β = 2.359, 95% CI [.943, 3.778], p = .001).

Conclusion: This study aims to discern the relationship between lifestyle interventions, goal achievement and mental health. Partaking in an HLP can reduce risk for mental illness and improve quality of life.