This page provides important information about the Early Intervention Psychosis Service in NHS Ayrshire & Arran.
What is psychosis?
Psychosis is a word used to describe a range of experiences that affect how you think, feel and understand the world around you. Psychosis is not a diagnosis, it’s just a description of a set of experiences. You might:
- Hear, see or feel things that others don’t
- Feel suspicious or that others are against you
- Believe things that others find unusual
- Have difficulties concentrating, sleeping or with your memory
- Experience strong emotions or feel emotionally ‘numb’
The experience of psychosis can be frightening or confusing, but with the right support recovery is possible. Many of the people who experience a first episode of psychosis go on to lead full, meaningful lives – including working, studying, having relationships and pursuing their goals. Psychosis can happen to anyone –and recovery is possible with the right support.
What is the Early Intervention Psychosis Service?
Early Intervention for Psychosis is a Scottish Government priority (Mental Health Strategy (2017-2027; Mental Health Transition and Recovery Plan, 2020). The Scottish Government and Healthcare Improvement Scotland are committed to establishing access to early intervention for first episode psychosis across Scotland.
We are a specialist multidisciplinary team that works with individuals aged 16-35 who are experiencing a first episode of psychosis. The team is made up of psychologists, mental health nurses and occupational therapists. Our aim is to provide early, effective support to help individuals recover and maintain their wellbeing.
Prescribing guidelines for patients with a first episode psychosis (NICE, 2020), reports that Psychosis affects 1-3% of the population, which is statistically higher than the incidence of diabetes in young people. Early support can make a big difference to long-term recovery. The EIPS aims to reduce the impact of psychosis, support recovery, and help individuals stay well and engaged in their lives, education or work.
Why would someone be referred to the EIPS?
A person may be referred to the EIPS if they are:
- Experiencing a first episode of psychosis
- Struggling with significant changes in thinking, perception, or behaviour that are concerning to the person or those around them
Psychosis can involve changes in the way someone thinks, feels or experiences the world. This may include hearing or seeing things that others don’t, holding unusual beliefs or feeling confused or withdrawn. The EIPS offers evidence-based care tailored to the needs of each person and their family.
Who can refer to the EIPS?
At present, referrals to the EIPS can only be made by your General Practitioner (GP).
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms that may suggest psychosis, we recommend speaking with your GP, who can assess your situation and make a referral to our service if appropriate.
What services does the EIPS offer?
The EIPS provides a wide range of tailored support including:
- Comprehensive assessment and care coordination with regular review of mental health needs
- Psychological Therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Psychosis (CBTp), Psychosocial Interventions for Psychosis (PSIP) and Behavioural Family Therapy (BFT).
- Physical health monitoring and lifestyle support
- Medication management
- Help with education, training and employment
- Relapse prevention planning and recovery support
- Support for families and carers, including psychoeducation and family interventions
We work closely with individuals and their support networks to ensure care is personalised, recovery-focused and flexible to changing needs.
The EIPS can work with patients in a variety of ways including:
- Home visits
A member of the EIPS can visit you in your home. This can help build trust and understanding in a familiar environment, and is especially helpful in the early stages of support
- Clinic appointments
You may be invited to attend appointments in a clinical area. We aim to offer a suitable space close to your home. These appointments will offer a confidential and safe space to talk about your experiences and plan your care. You are welcome to bring someone with you to the appointment
- Telephone consultations
For times when it is difficult to meet in person, we can arrange to speak with you by phone. This can be useful for regular check-ins or general support when face-to-face meetings are not needed
- Group settings
We offer group activities or support sessions where you can connect with others who may have had similar experiences. These groups can focus on recovery, education or social skills, and are run in a supportive and respectful way