Rumor: Lifestyle interventions that target diet and physical health in those with severe mental illness can improve metabolic health and reduce mortality risk.
Truth: This is true. Severe mental illness has been associated with an increased risk of mortality, which is largely the result of cardiometabolic disease. According to a review, dietary interventions, especially those implemented in early psychosis when clients begin to take medications, can minimize weight gain, improve metabolic health, and help reduce mortality risk in those with severe mental illness.
Read more about nutritional challenges and cardiometabolic health in those with severe mental illness here.
