Who we are
The Early Intervention in Psychosis Service sees people between the ages of 16 and 35 who are experiencing psychosis. Those aged 14 and 15 are seen alongside the local child and adolescent mental health team. The service aims to intervene early in psychosis, leading to better long term outcomes for people in reducing distress and improving social functioning.
What is psychosis?
Many young people experience changes in emotions, thoughts and behaviours. These are usually a temporary reaction to stress which resolves, but they may also indicate an early warning of psychosis. In the early stages of psychosis people may experience changes in their mood, problems with sleep, feeling more withdrawn and feeling less able to concentrate. Later signs of psychosis are likely to be more obvious and can be distressing.
If there are concerns that a young person may be developing psychosis it is best to seek help as soon as possible. Sometimes it will be the friends and family of the person experiencing difficulties who will notice changes.
Our service is set up to make it easy to get help. We are also aware of the many different cultural and individual ways of understanding experiences of psychosis. Understanding each person's beliefs about these experiences is important in working together to deal with the psychosis.
We offer a range of ways of helping that include talking therapies, education, activities, medication and working with a care coordinator to make sure all of your needs are met. This service is delivered by AWP with Off The Record, which specialises in confidential counselling and support for young people and has close links with employment, training and other services.
Who can refer
People can refer themselves to the service or can be referred by their GP. People can also contact the service if they are concerned about a friend, relative or other young person.
Where we are
The service is based in Cotham.