The participation in leisure activities and the quality of life of people with psychosis in England: A multi-site cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Leisure activities can improve the quality of life in the general population. For people with psychosis, negative symptoms are often a barrier to engaging in leisure social activities. However, we do not know if participation in leisure activities is associated with quality of life in this group and whether psychosocial interventions should aim to increase leisure activities amongst people with psychosis. Aim This study aims to investigate whether participation in leisure activities is associated with better quality of life of people with psychosis in England. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 6 NHS community mental health trusts. Adults aged 18–65 (N = 533) with a diagnosis of psychosis-related condition (ICD-10 F20-29) were recruited from outpatient secondary mental health services. Several measures were used: Time Use Survey (TUS), Manchester Short Assessment of Quality of Life (MANSA). Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analyses were conducted. Results Participation in at least one leisure activity in the last 7 days was reported by the majority of participants (n = 480, 90%). The average number of weekly leisure activities they attended was M = 2.42 (SE = 0.06). Participants’ quality of life increased with the number of leisure activities they attended. After controlling for socio-demographic factors, participation in leisure activities was positively associated with quality of life in people with psychosis (b = 0.083, SE = 0.035, p = 0.019, 95% CI [0.013 to 0.153]). We found a gender difference: For Males, the association between attendance in leisure activities and quality of life is significantly positive; b = 0.132, SE = 0.041, p = 0.002, 95% CI [0.050 to 0.213]. For females: the association between attendance in leisure activities and quality of life was no significant. Conclusion People with psychosis who attend more leisure activities have a higher quality of life. Quality of life was higher amongst males who attended leisure activities. Intervention which helps improve participation in leisure activities may be beneficial for people with psychosis.