video SMART – the Schizophrenia-and-diabetes Mobile-Assisted Remote Trainer

For many people living with schizophrenia and related disorders, often in their early twenties, starting antipsychotic medication is a vital step toward stability and recovery. While these medications are effective in reducing symptoms of psychosis, they can also cause rapid weight gain by disrupting blood sugar regulation, reducing fullness signals, and increasing cravings for high-calorie foods. This weight gain significantly raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and can also negatively effect self-esteem and social engagement. In some cases, these weight-inducing side-effects can even lead to individuals discontinuing their medication, resulting in relapse and hospitalisation.

That’s why we created SMART, in collaboration with individuals who have lived experience of these challenges, as well as with professionals from a wide range of disciplines such as psychiatry, endocrinology, nutrition, and e-health science

Learn more here.