A new film has been produced to encourage people with serious mental illnesses (SMI) to access their annual physical health checks.
The film was created as part of the Community Mental Health Transformation Programme in Gloucestershire. One of the programme’s key aims is to reduce the health inequalities which mean people with serious mental health issues do on average, have a shorter life span than the general population.
People with SMI often develop chronic physical health conditions at a younger age than people without an SMI. These chronic conditions include obesity, asthma, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, heart failure and liver disease. People with an SMI are at increased risk of developing more than one of these chronic conditions.
The film, produced in a joint partnership between the NHS and voluntary and community sector, aims to address this.
Angela Willan is a physical health nurse who works in mental health services for Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust and features in the film.
She says: “Many people with a serious mental health condition are unaware that they are entitled, encouraged and supported to have a free annual physical health check. We need to raise awareness that they are available and are an opportunity to have a chat and some straight forward tests that could literally save lives.
“We check people’s blood pressure, height, weight, cholesterol levels and diabetes risk. We also talk about healthy lifestyles and can then support people into staying healthy and well.
“The film was produced with the full involvement of people who have been diagnosed with mental health conditions, so we have taken all of their thoughts and concerns into account in the hope of encouraging everyone with an SMI to come forward.”
The film was co-produced by Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust, Inclusion Gloucestershire, The Independence Trust and Art Shape.
Annual Physical health checks can be carried out at your local GP surgery, community mental health hub or even in your own home. To access a check – speak to your GP surgery or your care coordinator.
The Independence Trust also provides a free service to support people with having their Physical Health Check. Telephone 01452 317460 or email info@independencetrust.co.uk.
