25 July 2025
If you live with schizophrenia, psychosis, or bipolar disorder, you may already know that your physical health matters just as much as your mental health. What you might not know is that a free NHS check-up could help you stay healthier, feel better, and avoid future problems. And it only takes about 20 minutes.
9,585 people in Sussex had their free yearly health check last year (April 2024 to March 2025) and on this National Schizophrenia Awareness Day (25 July), NHS Sussex is urging you, and others like you, to also take up the free annual physical health check you are entitled to.
It is a quick, simple, check that could help spot serious issues like diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure before they start affecting your life.
“These health checks make a real difference to people’s lives,” said Dr Bikram Raychaudhuri, a local GP and clinical lead for physical health checks in severe mental illness.
“They give us time to really understand what each person needs, catch problems early, and support them to stay well. Everyone deserves good care, and this is one way we help make that happen.”
The check covers six key areas, like blood pressure, weight, and blood tests for sugar and cholesterol.
Need help getting there?
GPs across Sussex understand that appointments can feel hard. That’s why they offer:
- Longer and quieter appointments.
- Flexible times to suit you.
- The option to bring someone with you.
- Friendly Access Facilitators who’ll help you every step of the way.
Access Facilitators are support workers who have already helped thousands of people in Sussex feel more confident about attending their check. Between April 2024 and end of March 2025, 3,011 checks were completed with their help.
You, your family, or your carer can call your GP and ask for the free annual physical health check. You don’t need to do it alone.
More people in Sussex living healthier, longer lives
In 2024/25, 62% of people with severe mental illness across Sussex had a full physical health check, including all six key tests, for the first time. That’s above the national target of 60%, and it shows real progress.
The South East ranked third out of all seven NHS regions, proof that people are getting the support they need.
Emma Carrington, Head of Advice and Information at the charity Rethink Mental Illness, said: “We know that living with a severe mental illness like schizophrenia can put you more at risk of developing problems with your physical health. Attending your annual health check can help make sure you’re in good physical health and that any conditions are spotted early and treated. They also offer a really valuable opportunity to discuss other support, such as with healthy eating, exercise, stopping smoking and more, to help you feel your best. We encourage anyone eligible to make the most of this support and attend your health check.”
You can visit the Rethink Mental Illness advice page on physical health checks for more information and guidance, including a free tool to support you before, during and after your health check and to track test results over time.
