Introduction
Data from Australia’s second national prevalence survey of psychotic illness (Survey of High Impact Psychosis—SHIP) provide a comprehensive snapshot of multiple facets of the lives of people living with severe mental illness, extending and deepening our understanding of their clinical presentation, living circumstances, social participation and needs. This presentation focuses on their poor physical health profile, including contributing factors.
Methods
The survey used a two-phase design to draw a representative sample of 1,825 adults aged 18–64 years with psychotic disorders and in contact with public treatment services from a population of 1,464,923 adults. The survey included items on: psychopathology; physical health including physical activity, nutrition and fasting blood tests; cognition; disability; at-risk behaviours; education; employment and income; accommodation; service utilisation and need.
Results
The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome was high, affecting 57.9% of participants: on average, risk factor thresholds were exceeded at an early age. Rates for other physical health conditions were markedly higher compared to the general population. Two-thirds (65.9%) of participants were current smokers, 47.4% were obese and 32.4% were sedentary. Half (49.8%) had a lifetime history of alcohol abuse/dependence and 50.8% a history of lifetime cannabis abuse/dependence. Poor social circumstances relative to the general community, especially with respect to employment, education and housing, exacerbate the physical and mental health profile of this group.
Discussion
These data emphasise the multiple health challenges that people with psychotic illness face and highlight the importance of a holistic and integrated approach to service provision.