New service supports physical health of people with severe mental illness
People living with severe mental illness can face poorer physical health and shorter lives than most.
NSFT is working with Suffolk User Forum to improve physical health care for the 4,200 people living with a severe mental illness across the county.
Their new ‘Healthy Together’ project aims to ensure that people with severe mental illness – mainly schizophrenia and bipolar disorder – receive their annual physical health check and any physical health care or support that it identifies.
This can include support to attend:
- hospital or therapy appointments
- flu or COVID vaccinations
- clinical screenings
It can also include help to make lifestyle changes to improve long-term health. Such as advice on:
- healthy eating
- exercise
- stopping smoking
Brendan Colton, Service Manager for the Severe Mental Illness Suffolk, Physical Health Team, said: “The average life expectancy for people with severe mental illness is up to 20 years less than that of the general population. Health is often poorer due to lifestyle and social factors, including smoking, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, social stigma and social poverty.
“The annual checks provide the opportunity to identify physical health conditions, or behaviours which pose a risk to health. Then we can put in place some structured support.”
The team, with the person’s consent, can refer to Suffolk User Forum, who provide that support.
Jayne Stevens, CEO of Suffolk User Forum, said: “We are delighted to be part of this initiative, which is making a difference to people’s lives.
“People with a mental health problem have as much right to good physical health. This project sees people as whole, where their physical and mental health are given the same respect and care. It gives people control of their lives and personal healthcare goals.”
Healthy Together, which is co-produced with people using services, has received positive feedback. Paul (pseudonym) said: “I have achieved so much in a few weeks, and SUF have helped me sort some of my other problems out as well. I have appreciated this support and it’s made a difference to me.”