A new website called ‘Me, Myself and Mental Health’ will be launched on 23 May 2013 to support young people experiencing symptoms of psychosis. 

The website was developed by young service users at Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust using funding awarded by the Darren Huckerby Trust. It can be viewed at www.memyselfandmentalhealth.org.uk.

The website will be officially launched during a special event at The Forum, Norwich on 23 May from 6pm to 9pm. A photography-based anti-stigma film produced by service users will also be showcased.

The website was put together by 15 service users who see early intervention teams based in Great Yarmouth and Waveney, King’s Lynn and Norwich.

One of them is 23 year old Henry Agger, from Upwell in West Norfolk. He said: “I was told about the website by the early intervention team and wanted to get involved. I shared my ideas and really tried to consider the point of view of other young people who might visit the website.”

The website offers help and advice about the symptoms of psychosis, information about coping strategies and how to get in touch with the early intervention teams.

“We wanted to provide something that really gets across the purpose of the early intervention team to people who maybe haven’t heard of them. I feel that this was a good way to do that and that we achieved what we set out to do.”

Gary Pitcher, Community Support Worker at Great Yarmouth early intervention team, said: “All of the young people who took part in this project have experienced psychosis. Psychosis is a condition that affects a person’s ability to differentiate between was is real and what isn’t.

“The project has given them a chance to develop practical skills and hone their creativity in a safe, non-judgmental environment. It is great to see the young people as experts – using their knowledge of their own psychosis to inform and educate others. It is a real confidence boost.”

Henry did the graphic design elements of the website. He added: “I do a lot of graphic design and digital art as a hobby so taking part in the project was a really positive experience.

“I think we will really help people understand a bit more about psychosis and what support there is.”

 

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