A new survey is seeking to uncover reasons why many people with serious mental illness are not taking up the offer of a free annual health check.
Grapevine has been commissioned by NHS Coventry and Warwickshire Clinical Commissioning Group to talk to as many people as possible to understand what the barriers may be and how we can find ways to overcome them.
An annual health check with a GP can help identify and treat preventable and potentially serious health conditions.
As well as checking weight, height, blood pressure and other levels, it’s an opportunity to review any medications and have an open discussion about lifestyle, smoking, exercise and alcohol intake. It’s also completely free.
Research has shown that people with severe mental illness can have a significantly greater chance of developing diabetes and other serious health issues. It’s vital that we understand why so few receive the annual health check they are entitled to so we can create solutions together.
Project worker Alex Rigler said: “I don’t want people to think they aren’t ‘ill’ enough to have a say. If your mental health impacts your day-to-day life, then your views matter.
“It’s worth noting that this impact may be felt more significantly from one day to another – we still want to hear from you.”
Access the survey
You are invited to answer the survey by clicking here. Names will NOT be used in the results.
If you need any help, please email Alex at arigler@grapevinecovandwarks.org.
The survey is open until the end of September 2021. Please share this article to help spread the word and give as many people as possible the opportunity to take part.
If this article has encouraged you to get an annual health check – please do! Contact your local GP practice directly to make an appointment.