EXERCISE IS (NOT) MEDICINE: Reflections on the Role of Physical Therapy and Physical Education in Mental Health

Abstract

Physical Therapy and Physical Education (PE) are not traditionally part of mental health rehabilitation, but their involvement has been increasing. PE has reconsidered its practice for a longer time and produced more research, while Physical Therapy has shown growing interest only in the last decade, focusing on patients’ functional independence. Both fields lack more consistent university training. Professionals working in this area should understand the historical, political, and social context of the anti-asylum movement, promoting autonomy and social reintegration of individuals. The article also discusses leisure as a social right and Health Education based on Paulo Freire’s theory. Exercise is not medicine because, like access to medications, access to exercise is marked by social inequalities; if access were equal, the need for drugs might be lower.