East Cheshire Early Intervention in Psychosis Team

Serving people aged 14 to 35 and their families in the East Cheshire and Vale Royal area, who are suspected of having or experiencing psychosis for the first time.

Introduction

The East Cheshire Early Intervention Team offers support and treatment to people aged 14 to 35 who are suspected of, or experiencing a psychosis for the first time.

The team is multi-disciplinary and is staffed by a consultant psychiatrist, community mental health nurses, a cognitive behavioural therapist, support workers and an exercise referral specialist.

What is psychosis?

  • A psychosis is an illness of the mind when somebody’s experience of reality is different from other people and has lasted more than one week.

  • Psychosis can happen to anyone and it affects 1 in every 100 people.

  • The earlier people seek help, the quicker they recover.
  • A psychotic illness can be triggered by stress and drug use.
  • If drug use continues, recovery can take longer to be achieved.

What the team can offer

  • An improved prognosis and recovery by the detection, assessment and treatment of an individual during the initial part of the illness.

  • Help people understand their experiences by listening to them.

  • Give information about psychosis and treatments.
  • Advice about medication.
  • Advice and signposting with finances, housing, education and employment.
  • Support carers, relatives and friends.
  • Prevent relapse and the need for hospital admission.
  • Provide support for up to 5 years.
  • Raise awareness and reduce stigma.
  • Promote and encourage social activities.

Making a referral

Referrals can be made by statutory services e.g. GPs, primary care mental health teams, community mental health teams and liaison teams based in A&E departments.

Referrals will also be accepted from non-statutory services e.g. school nurses, housing associations, hostels and voluntary services. This can include self-referrals and referrals from families.

Referral letters can be faxed to the team or information can be taken over the telephone.

Once accepted by the team a care coordinator who is best suited to the persons needs will be allocated.

Visits can take place at home, the team office, resource centres or in a neutral venue i.e. GP surgery.

Changing your key worker

Service users have the option of changing their key worker if they so wish. Ask to speak to the team manager for further information.