Severe Mental Illness

What is Severe Mental Illness?

Severe mental illness (SMI) refers to psychological problems, such as schizophrenia, bipolar and psychosis, that often lead to an impaired ability to engage in functional and occupational activities.

Why is it Important to Attend Physical Health Checks?

Many people with a severe mental illness experience at least one physical health condition alongside their mental illness and have a higher prevalence of health issues such as obesity, asthma, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and hypertension. By attending your annual physical health check, clinicians are able to identify any issues and reduce these health inequalities.        

How can Aintree Primary Care Network Help?

At Aintree PCN, our aim is to improve engagement to physical health checks for SMI patients. Our Care Coordinators are here to provide support and remove any barriers that may be preventing you accessing your appointments. By making reasonable adjustments prior to your appointment or signposting to organisations and resources for support, we can take the right steps to improve your physical health. 

If you would like more information regarding your annual physical health check or would like to access organisations and resources for support, please contact our SMI Care Co-Ordinator Sarah on 07548 832714 or email Sarah.Lafferty@livgp.nhs.uk. 

Alternatively, you can email AintreePCN.CareCoordinators@livgp.nhs.uk