BETWEEN THE PHYSICAL AND THE MENTAL: A LOOK AT THE BENEFITS OF PHYSICAL EXERCISE IN PATIENTS DIAGNOSED WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA

Abstract

This study discusses schizophrenia from an integral perspective, considering its cognitive, physical, emotional, and social impacts. Historically, psychiatric care has prioritized symptom control through medication, often neglecting the patient’s physical health and bodily experience. In this context, physical activity emerges as an important complementary therapeutic strategy in psychosocial rehabilitation. The research is characterized as a qualitative bibliographic review, based on scientific articles, institutional documents, books, and academic studies related to schizophrenia, mental health, cognition, neuroplasticity, and physical activity. The findings indicate that regular physical exercise contributes significantly to cognitive preservation, especially regarding memory, attention, executive functions, and autonomy. These benefits are associated with neurobiological mechanisms such as neuroplasticity and the regulation of neurotransmitters, including dopamine and serotonin.In addition to cognitive improvements, physical activity also promotes emotional and social benefits, helping reduce negative symptoms such as apathy, anhedonia, and social withdrawal. Group physical practices encourage social interaction, strengthen interpersonal bonds, improve self-esteem, and contribute to psychosocial reintegration. Furthermore, body-oriented activities help reconstruct body perception and personal identity, favoring the reintegration of the “body-self” often fragmented by psychosis.The study also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary work involving psychologists, psychiatrists, physical educators, and other healthcare professionals in promoting comprehensive and humanized care. Therefore, physical activity should be understood not only as a physical health intervention but also as a therapeutic and social tool capable of promoting autonomy, citizenship, quality of life, and social inclusion for individuals with schizophrenia.