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?
The Early Intervention Psychosis Service supports individuals aged 16-35 who are experiencing a first episode of psychosis. We know that getting help early makes a big difference, so our focus is on early assessment and support. We offer as much help and support as patients feel they need, to enable them to live the life they want.
The service is made up of a team of professionals – including nurses, psychologists, occupational therapists – who work with patients their family to support recovery.