Pathfinder partner, Rethink Mental Illness, calls for rapid access to treatment for rising numbers in England experiencing early symptoms of psychosis.
During the pandemic, there has been a marked increase in the number of people referred to mental health services for their first suspected episode of psychosis, according to data analysed by Rethink Mental Illness. The most significant upward trend in referrals began after the easing of the first national lockdown.
According to NHS data identifying the primary reason for referral to mental health services, there was a 29 per cent increase in referrals due to psychosis in April 2021, compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019, with a 26 per cent increase in referrals in May 2021 (compared to May 2019) and a 21 per cent increase in June 2021 (compared to June 2019).
The pandemic has had a “game-changing” effect on mental health, says Rethink Mental Illness, and these statistics suggest significant levels of distress across the population from the effects of Covid-19 and ensuing lockdowns.
Psychosis can involve hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that other people don’t) and delusions (believing things that aren’t based on reality) – and can be extremely distressing for those experiencing these symptoms. Sometimes psychosis can be a symptom of another mental illness, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or severe depression, but it can also be triggered by a traumatic experience or drug and alcohol misuse.
Worryingly, many first presentations of psychosis occur in young adults and this rise in psychosis cases adds further concern about the extreme pressures young people have faced during the pandemic and the future impact on their mental health.
In this context, rapid access to treatment is crucial, says the charity. While NICE guidelines currently state that someone experiencing a suspected first episode of psychosis should be assessed within two weeks, there are concerns that people may have to wait longer for treatment.
“Psychosis can have a devastating impact on people’s lives,” says Brian Dow, deputy chief executive of Rethink Mental Illness. “Swift access to treatment is vital to prevent further deterioration in people’s mental health, which could take them years to recover from.
“Dedicated additional funding for mental health and social care must go to frontline services to help meet the new demand, otherwise thousands of people could bear a catastrophic cost.”
For more information about psychosis, linked conditions and treatment, please visit rethink.org
If you are struggling with your mental health, you can find support and help in your local area on this website.
