Severe Mental Illness (SMI) refers to diagnoses of schizophrenia, bipolar and organic psychosis. People diagnosed with an SMI are at risk of dying 15-20 years earlier than the general population due to often preventable physical diseases.

• Two times more likely to have diabetes and die of cancer
• Five times more likely to die of liver disease
• Three times more likely to die of cardiovascular disease

If you would like to find out more about SMI and physical health checks then book onto our free training. 

Izzy, Health and Engagement Officer talks to BCB Radio about how to book a Physical Health Check if you have a Severe Mental Illness:

How do people with SMI book a Physical Health Check?

Anyone aged 18 and over that is diagnosed with a SMI can access a physical health check through their GP.

The Physical Health Check takes no more 30-minutes and includes:

• weight measurement
• blood pressure
• blood tests
• assessment of alcohol consumption
• assessment of smoking status.

We encourage anyone with a SMI to take up these health checks. 

What is a Physical Health Check?

What happens after a Physical Health Check?

Once someone has attended for their annual Physical Health Check, onward support can be provided into suitable services across the Bradford District. These could be to help support with physical, mental, or even social health concerns, such as:

• Increasing physical activity
• Finding peer support 
• Attending a wellbeing group
• Reducing smoking 
• Accessing social support 

Our SMI Health Engagement Officers can provide people living with an SMI with signposting and direct referrals into a number of support services and programmes. If you’d like to know more about how to access this support, email Izzy at [email protected]

Take part in our project helping those with an SMI to boost their physical activity

Our Health Engagement Officers are currently helping those living with an SMI in the Manningham, Heaton, and Eccleshill areas to take steps to increase their physical activity, by supporting them to participate in fun activities that fit their personal needs and abilities. Whether you’d like support to access a long-term physical activity service, find friendly groups, plan an independent physical activity routine, or get guidance on exercising from home, this project is here to help find the right support for you and your needs.

If this sounds of interest to you, complete a self referral form, or send any questions to [email protected]

Self referral form