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Please note that this summary was posted more than 5 years ago. More recent research findings may have been published.

Severe mental illness (SMI) affects somewhere between one in one hundred and one in two hundred adults. People with severe mental illness, like schizophrenia, psychosis or bipolar disorder, often experience poorer health and, as a result, die sooner than others. Psychotic illnesses can have a profound effect on people and their families, and appropriate and effective interventions are needed.

Forward Thinking provides an overview of recent published research, funded by the NIHR, on support for people living with SMI. These studies address particular uncertainties and evidence gaps identified by those working in and using these services. It also highlights research currently taking place to inform the support and care of people with severe mental illness.

Forward Thinking

NIHR research on support for people with severe mental illness

This review highlights a selection of NIHR-funded research on aspects of severe mental illness such as supporting early detection and intervention, crisis care, supporting recovery and managing physical and mental health.

It features:

  • 30 published studies
  • 19 ongoing research projects
  • Questions to ask about support for people living with SMI

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Produced by the University of Southampton on behalf of NIHR through the NIHR Dissemination Centre

NIHR Evidence is covered by the creative commons, CC-BY licence. Written content and infographics may be freely reproduced provided that suitable acknowledgement is made. Note, this licence excludes comments and images made by third parties, audiovisual content, and linked content on other websites.

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