All people with a severe mental illness (SMI) are entitled to an annual physical health check.
You have a severe mental illness if you have a diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar affective disorder or other psychoses. People on lithium medication are also entitled to this review. Some aspects of living with SMI mean that people are more likely to develop physical health problems.
Everyone’s situation is different, but it is known that good mental and physical health go hand in hand. A full health check is an important first step towards taking ownership of your physical health.
At a physical health check the following should take place:
- Blood pressure – your blood pressure will be checked.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) – a simple test to check your heart’s rhythm and electrical activity.
- Blood glucose – a blood sample will be taken for a blood test, where the level of glucose (sugar) in your blood will be checked.
- Height and weight – your height and weight will be measured.
- Blood lipid – a blood sample will be taken for a blood test, where the level of cholesterol in your blood will be checked.
- Smoking – you will be asked whether you smoke.
- Alcohol – you will be asked how much alcohol you drink.
- Screening and immunisation programmes – you will be asked if you have taken part in these programmes.
- Medication review – your medication will be reviewed and changes made if necessary. You’ll also be asked other questions about your general health
You will be offered a routine appointment for this or you can speak to your mental health worker and ask them to arrange this through the SMI Physical Health Team.