Water and mental wellbeing

Water and mental
wellbeing
Barcelona, Spain

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CASE STUDY

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Overview

Physical activity in water substantially improves the physical and mental health of people with serious mental disorders. Over a two-year period, Sant Joan de Déu Hospital in Barcelona evaluated participants in their aquatic mental health programme and found significant benefits. Activities such as swimming and water aerobics were shown to boost self-esteem, reduce feelings of social stigma and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Participants also reported improved perceptions of their overall health, along with enhancements in personal care and the ability to manage daily tasks. Furthermore, engaging in water-based exercise within a community sports setting amplifies these benefits by fostering social connections and encouraging active participation in society.

“Aquatic activities generate improvements in many areas in people with mental health problems, depending on their gender and diagnosis.”

Dr Susana Ochoa, Unitat de Recerca del Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu

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Points 
of interest

435 people participate in the programme.
The benefits are different for men and women.
The study forms part of the global Thalassa project.
The project receives the support of Fluidra and the Fluidra Foundation.

“The project acts as a facilitator to address the limitations associated with mental health conditions and allows participants to gain autonomy, self-esteem and improve social interactions.”

Berta Garcia, Sant Joan de Déu Project Coordinator

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Conclusions

The Hospital Sant Joan de Déu’s aquatic programme demonstrates the powerful role that swimming pools can play in mental healthcare. By offering a space for structured water-based activities, the initiative helps participants gain confidence, build social connections and find a sense of belonging. This case study highlights the potential of integrating aquatic therapy into mental health support, providing a valuable model for other facilities seeking to combine physical activity with community-based care.