The Early Intervention Service offers supports to people in Sheffield aged between 16 and 64 years old, who are experiencing symptoms of first episode psychosis.

Psychosis is a condition that effects a person’s ability to know what is real. This might include experiencing distressing or troubling thoughts and feelings, or seeing or hearing things that other don’t.

We offer care support in line with NICE guidance for up to three years.

Our support is tailored to suit your individual needs and may include one-to-one therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.

You could also be offered the chance to attend other sessions, for example:

  • Relatives group – supportive group for families and friends of those experiencing psychosis

Anyone aged 14 to 16 seeking support would be initially referred to our colleagues in the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service at Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust.

We ensure that anyone aged 16 who is moving to our service is fully supported along the way to ensure a smooth transition.

At-risk mental states (ARMS) pathway

ARMS works with young people aged 16-35 who are not experiencing a first episode of psychosis but may be having some similar experiences to someone who is - but at a less intense or frequent level.

Having unusual thoughts and experiences is relatively common, and not everybody finds it distressing or wants support with these things. However, for some people these experiences can be frightening or frustrating, and get in the way of living life in the way that they want.

ARMS can provide support early-on to people who want help with this. We work with young people in lots of different ways and this can involve:

  • Individual talking therapy – provides a safe space to make sense of experiences
  • Support – for friends and family members of the young person
  • Family therapy – an opportunity to explore how the young person and important people in their life can support each other and celebrate their strengths
  • Practical support – with things like education, employment and finances
  • Medication – can be considered to help with managing mood.

How is the service accessed?

All referrals to the Early Intervention Service must be made by your GP or through the Primary and Community Mental Health team.

You can take a look at the eligibility and selection criteria for the service here.

Support for students in Sheffield

Being at university can be tough for some people - especially in the first year of your studies. You're in a new city, surrounded by people you've never met before and you're trying your best to fit in. All of that on top of the pressure of doing well on your course.

It's a stressful experience and if you're struggling your thoughts can sometimes take you down a dark path.

If you or someone you know is isolating themselves, struggling to sleep, feeling paranoid or seeing things, we can help.

To access this support, please speak with your GP and ask to be referred to our service.