Bedfordshire and Luton Early Intervention Service
If you are reading this, it may mean that you are worried about someone you care about or that you are concerned about some of your own experiences.
The Early Intervention Service is an NHS care team that provides specialist services for people aged between 14 and 35 who are experiencing psychosis for the first time.
The team also helps people who have had symptoms of psychosis but have not yet received any help.
What is meant by Psychosis?
The word ‘psychosis’ refers to a set of experiences which may include the following:
- Hearing voices when there is no one around, sometimes called hallucinations
- Having visions that others cannot see
- Feeling suspicious or paranoid
- Having unusual beliefs – for example that you are being persecuted or that you have special powers
- Believing that people are interfering with your thoughts
- Feeling as if the TV or radio or computer is giving you messages
- Difficulties thinking clearly
These problems can have an effect on all aspects of life, including work and study performance, getting on with friends and family, and managing day-to-day activities.
Why is getting help early a good idea?
If psychosis is detected early, many problems can be prevented. Current treatments are so effective that almost every individual can recover from a first episode of psychosis.
The earlier the problem is treated, the greater the chance of a successful recovery.
If left untreated, there is greater disruption to the person’s family, friendships, study and work. It can also begin to affect self-esteem and mood, which can lead to other problems. Being able to treat psychosis early greatly increases the person’s chances of being able to enjoy a healthy and productive future.
What can I do if I recognise the symptoms?
If you recognise some of the symptoms described here, you can contact the team directly on 01234 315690.
However, if you would rather speak to somebody that you know, you should make an appointment to see your GP. Tell your GP that you have read this information and want to discuss your concerns. If your GP suspects that the experience might be psychosis, they will refer you to the service.
The team will then arrange to meet with you and talk to you about your experiences. If psychosis is suspected, treatment options will be discussed and the best way of you getting started with these.
Bedfordshire and Luton Early Intervention Service
Admin Block
Twinwoods Resource Centre
Milton Road
Clapham
Bedfordshire
MK41 6AT
Telephone: 01234 315690