Sound of Silence

It can happen to anyone, so why aren’t we talking about psychosis? An expert explains why early help is vital – and how to spot the signs.

Imagine seeing or hearing things others can’t – thinking loved ones want to harm you. Or worse. This can be the terrifying, all encompassing reality for the one in ten of us who experience psychosis.

Celebrities like chef Heston Blumenthal, Bridgerton star Ruby Barker and actor David Harewood have all spoken about their psychotic episodes.

Consultant psychiatrist Dr Debbie Marsden from Mersey Care’s Early Intervention team provides intensive support for people aged 14 to 65 experiencing psychosis for the first time.

She’s on a mission to end stigma and misunderstanding about the condition.

“We discuss anxiety and depression quite openly now, which is great. Yet there’s still silence and stigma around psychosis. The term ‘psychotic’ is frequently misused which may lead people to believe that someone is a risk to others when we know they’re more likely to harm or neglect themselves. Psychosis is common and really can happen to anyone. We want people to know it’s often a normal reaction to abnormal or traumatic life events.

Someone experiencing psychosis may hear voices, have jumbled thoughts or hallucinations, believe someone is reading their mind or feel they’re being followed or monitored. They may lose touch with reality and struggle to keep up with daily life.

Early diagnosis and treatment is crucial says Debbie. “If we can support someone early to get back to work or college, help them get physically healthier and have good relationships with friends and family, they are less likely to become trapped in a ‘revolving door’ of recurring mental health problems and relapses.”

Alongside prescribing medication and therapies, the team also works with The Life Rooms to offer people with psychosis ways to become less isolated. They can also help with debt or housing issues and signpost to addiction services where needed.

Debbie calls on families and friends to help. “Experiences feel so real that a person may not realise that they are unwell. Friends and family are often the first to notice something is wrong. I’d urge anyone who sees signs of psychosis to get help quickly. With early support the person can get treatment and get back their life.”

Where to get help

Contact your GP or for urgent support go to A&E and ask for the mental health team. You can also contact the Early Intervention team in your area directly.

Watch films about the team and patients’ recovery journeys.

• Hearing Voices website offers support and advice: hearing voices.org