Clinicians’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Physical Activity Interventions in Irish Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)

Abstract

Objectives: Physical Activity (PA) offers significant mental health benefits for young people, yet its integration into Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) remains limited. This study explored Irish CAMHS clinicians’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding Physical Activity Interventions (PAIs). 

Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was distributed nationally to clinicians working in CAMHS across Ireland, including consultants, non-consultant hospital doctors (NCHDs), nurses, psychologists, and allied health professionals. The study-specific questionnaire assessed three domains—knowledge of Physical Activity guidelines, perceived evidence, and clinical practice—alongside personal attitudes toward Physical Activity. Non-parametric analyses were conducted to examine inter-group differences and associations between domains. 

Results: While 84% agreed that incorporating Physical Activity should be a Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services responsibility, 65% reported that no team member currently delivered Physical Activity Interventions. Knowledge of guideline-recommended Physical Activity levels was limited (mean score = 1.2/3), and factual knowledge showed no association with practice. Perceived evidence was strongest for depression and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and correlated positively with frequency of Physical Activity Interventions recommendations (r = .48, p < .01). Practice varied significantly by professional role (p = .008), with Non-Consultant Hospital Doctors recommending Physical Activity Interventions less often than consultants or nurses. Personal attitudes were uniformly positive across roles (M = 4.1/5). 

Conclusions: Irish Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services clinicians endorse the value of physical activity but demonstrate variable implementation and limited guideline knowledge. Perceived strength of evidence for Physical Activity Interventions rather than factual knowledge, drives clinical behaviour. Enhancing clinician confidence in the evidence base and embedding structured Physical Activity training within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services could strengthen integration of Physical Activity Interventions into youth mental healthcare.