Early Psychosis Intervention Credited with Saving a Life

Craig Mackie began experiencing symptoms of psychosis in his 20s, stating: “I have heard voices and I have seen things.” He informed BBC Radio Sussex that the assistance he obtained from the Early Intervention in Psychosis Services allowed him to “live alongside” his condition. He now assists others in his capacity as a peer support worker for the service, which he believes “probably saved my life.” Mr. Mackie emphasized that early intervention is “hugely beneficial” and makes circumstances “much easier for you in the long run.” He noted that he was unaware of the service’s existence, adding: “If I had known it existed earlier, things might have been different.” He further reflected, “If I hadn’t found it then, I can’t say for certain if I would be here now or not.” A recent investigation conducted by Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust determined that early intervention within the initial three years of psychosis leads to improved outcomes for young patients. This research was published in the British Journal of Psychiatry and received funding from the National Institute for Health and Care Research. The study examined factors that might deter young individuals from addressing their mental health concerns, such as the insufficient involvement of family and friends in treatment discussions. Service users and their carers reported that the Early Youth Engagement (EYE) approach was beneficial for addressing isolation, building trust, achieving personal goals, fostering better communication with the service, enabling shared decision-making with staff, and promoting family involvement. This approach encompasses a website, a series of booklets co-authored with young people, and additional resources designed to support young individuals and their families, along with a training program for staff. Mr. Mackie, who received support from the service between 2017 and 2020, stated that early intervention creates “a huge difference.” He recounted, “I couldn’t cope with it because I didn’t know what was happening.” He described his previous state: “I would hardly ever leave home. I didn’t really talk to my friends and family. I wouldn’t really do anything.” He found relief in understanding: “Just having someone else that was able to understand me and knowing that I wasn’t alone gave me a sense of relief.” He concluded, “Now I can use that experience to help other people.” He clarified that his psychosis has not disappeared, but he now possesses the necessary tools to manage his life and his new role, where he uses his personal experience to assist others. “I now live with a voice. That’s what I’m living alongside, rather than against,” he explained. He added, “[Psychosis] can be a scary thing, but also not a scary thing once you know what it is and you’re able to live alongside it.” BBC Action Line: If you have been affected by issues in this story, find out what support is available here. Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.