Effectiveness of Interventions for Weight Loss for People With Serious Mental Illness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Link to DOI → Authors: Brown, C. and Geiszler, L. C. and Lewis, K. J. and Arbesman, M. Year: 2018 Journal: Am J Occup Ther Vol/Issue: Vol. 72, No. 5 Pages: 7205190030p1-7205190030p9 Study Characteristics Lifestyle Pillars NutritionPhysical Activity Study Design Meta-analysis/Sys Review Abstract ObjectiveWe examined the effectiveness of weight loss interventions in community-based settings for people with serious mental illness (SMI).MethodFour databases were searched for randomized controlled trials published in 2008 or later that met the criteria for the research question and used weight loss as an outcome measure. Data were extracted, and weight loss was analyzed using a meta-analysis. Similarities and differences in interventions were analyzed qualitatively.ResultsSeventeen studies and a total of 1,874 participants with various diagnoses of SMI were included in the meta-analysis. The various lifestyle-focused interventions had a significant effect on weight loss with an overall effect size of -0.308 (p < .001).ConclusionCommunity-based interventions for people with SMI are effective for weight loss. Occupational therapists can be involved in the provision of weight loss interventions and in the development and study of intervention components that are most effective.