Annual physical health checks

Living with a mental health condition can increase the risk of physical health issues. Annual physical health checks help catch potential problems early, helping you stay healthy with the right care and support.

It is up to you to decide if you want to have an annual health check, but these checks can make a big difference to your health and wellbeing. They can help to find any problems early before they develop and give you an opportunity discuss any concerns you may have so that you get the treatment or support you need to stay well.

Annual physical health checks are offered to people aged 18 and over living with schizophrenia, psychosis, bipolar affective disorder or those taking antipsychotic medication. It may be referred to by a health professional as a Serious Mental Illness (SMI).

If you meet the criteria, it should already be recorded on your GP record, which means your practice will invite you for a physical health check every year.

Your health check usually takes place at your GP practice. A health professional such as a nurse or health care assistant will complete the check. You do not need to do anything before your appointment. You should have six core checks, which include:

Height and weight

Your height and weight will be measured.

Blood pressure

Your blood pressure will be checked.

Blood sugar level

A blood sample will be taken for a blood test, where the level of glucose (sugar) in your blood will be checked.

Blood cholesterol

A blood sample will be taken for a blood test, where the level of cholesterol in your blood will be checked.

Smoking status

You will be asked if you smoke.

Alcohol intake

You will be asked how much alcohol you drink.

The healthcare professional may also check other areas of your health such as diet and exercise. They may ask if you are up to date with vaccinations and other screenings. The check is an opportunity for you to talk through any concerns you have about your physical health.

You will be told the results of these checks in your appointment and can discuss if any advice or action is needed. The exception to this is if you have your blood test done either at or after the appointment, these results will be available following the appointment.

If there are any issues picked up in the health check, you will be referred on to the relevant service for follow-up care. The health care professional may also offer advice or signpost you on to other support services.

If you need extra help to make the appointment comfortable, please let us know. We are here to support you, whether that means a longer appointment, interpreting services, a quiet space, or having someone accompany you. You may also be offered a home visit if you are unable to leave your home. 

If you have anxiety or fear about needles, we can provide additional support to help you during your health check. You can access free NHS needle phobia treatment using virtual reality (VR). Find more information at Vita Health Group.
 

Supporting someone who is living with mental illness can involve change, uncertainty and can be stressful at times. Find information on how to support someone with a mental health condition at Rethink Mental Illness. 

During your health check, you should be asked if you have taken part in other screening and immunisation programmes and if you need any support to book these. Completing these health screenings when you are invited is an important step to looking after your physical health. National screening programmes include:

Bowel cancer screening 

People aged 60 to 74-years-old will be invited for a bowel cancer screening every two years. 

Breast screening (mammogram) 

Women aged 50 to 70-years-old will be invited for a breast screening every three years. Men who take antipsychotic medication may be invited, as this medication can affect the tissue in your chest area.

Cervical screening 

All women aged 25 to 64-years-old will be invited for a cervical screening every three years.

Prostate cancer

Men aged 50 and over can ask their GP about the risk factors of prostate cancer and discuss whether or not screening is appropriate. 

Sexual health screening

It is important to regularly check your sexual health, especially if you get a new partner or start a new relationship. 

Dental checks 

Going to the dentist and keeping your teeth and gums in check is an important way to stay healthy. Some medications may have an impact on your oral health. Find more information about dental services.  

Eye tests

It’s important to have your eyes checked to make sure they are healthy. You should have a check-up every two years (unless you’ve been told to go more often or have diabetes). Find more information about eye tests.

Help and support from other services: 

Stop smoking services

Many people try to quit smoking with willpower alone, but it's much easier to go smoke-free with the right help. There are lots of support options available to help you on your quitting journey. Find stop smoking services in Kent or Medway. 

Employment support

Get support to help you secure paid employment and enhance your mental wellbeing in the workplace. Find more information at Shaw Trust. 

Is there anything I need to do before the health check? 

No preparation is needed, just turn up to your appointment at the scheduled time.

Can I talk to someone about my mental health?

While the nurse or healthcare professional doing your health check may not be a mental health professional, they will be able to listen to any concerns you have about your mental health and can refer you on to the appropriate support.

How will I get the results of the health check?

Most of the results will be discussed with you in your appointment and you will be given advice on how to improve or maintain your health. You may be referred on if additional support or treatment is needed.

You may be asked to book your blood test before the health check and in this case, the results can be discussed in your appointment. If you are referred on for your blood test following your health check appointment, your GP practice will contact you if there are any concerns. 

I’ve already had a health check do I have to have another?

The annual health check for people with a serious mental illness is not the same as the NHS Health Check for all adults aged 40 to 74-years-old. The standard NHS Health Check is done every five years and checks your risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, diabetes and dementia. You should attend both checks when invited.  

I need an interpreter, will this be offered?

When booking your appointment, please let the provider know you will need an interpreter so they can make necessary arrangements.

How can I get support for my physical health if I don’t meet the criteria for a health check?

Find information and support at One You Kent, A Better Medway and Live Well Kent.