Early Intervention in Psychosis Service, Bristol

Office: 0117 919 2371

Our dedicated regional Early Intervention in Psychosis (EIP) teams provide comprehensive and compassionate support to individuals experiencing symptoms of psychosis. As a vital part of the Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust, we're committed to delivering timely and effective care across our communities in the South West.

Following a thorough initial assessment, our teams provide rapid and intensive support that can last for up to three years. This focused intervention aims to stabilise an individual's condition and foster lasting recovery. A key aspect of our service delivery involves close collaboration with Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). This partnership is specifically tailored to support young people between the ages of 14 and 18 within the Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire areas. It’s worth noting that similar invaluable services for young individuals in Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire are diligently provided by Oxford Health.

If you, or someone you care for, is referred to our specialist services, the core objectives of our EIP teams are multifaceted and patient-centred. We aim to empower both the individual and their family members with a clearer understanding of the experiences they are encountering, and a primary goal is to significantly alleviate the distress and confusion that can often accompany unusual or disorienting perceptions. To achieve this, we consistently deliver a range of evidence-based treatments and therapeutic interventions, meticulously chosen for their proven efficacy in supporting recovery from psychosis. Ultimately, our overarching philosophy is firmly rooted in promoting personal recovery and facilitating a prompt and sustainable reintegration into daily life, which includes a renewed engagement with crucial everyday roles such as occupational pursuits, familial responsibilities, and the cultivation of meaningful social relationships.

Referrals to our highly specialised EIP teams are typically facilitated by General Practitioners (GPs) and other qualified healthcare professionals, ensuring a streamlined pathway to support. Furthermore, individuals receiving care from our teams have the opportunity to engage with enriching supplementary programmes, such as the "Recovery Through Sport" initiative. This particular programme provides free football sessions for those over 18, recognising the profound benefits of physical activity in enhancing mental well-being and supporting a holistic recovery journey. Our commitment is to offer a supportive, understanding, and effective pathway to recovery, helping individuals to reclaim their lives with confidence and resilience.