TO MARK Loneliness Awareness Week (05-11 Aug), the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has partnered with Pharmacy Addressing Loneliness and Social-isolation (PALS) to launch an unprecedented training program for pharmacists.
The initiative aims to tackle loneliness as a critical social and health issue.
The program, designed by Australian pharmacist and PALS founder Jenny Kirschner, is the first global education initiative targeting health professionals.
It equips community pharmacists with the skills to identify and assist patients at risk of poor health due to loneliness.
The training includes video testimonies from pharmacists, interviews with global health leaders, and evidence-based education to deal with isolation.
Research reveals that loneliness significantly affects physical, cognitive, and mental health, with a 26% increased risk of premature death - akin to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
It's also linked to a 32% increased risk of stroke, a 29% increased chance of coronary heart disease, and heightened cholesterol, blood pressure, and depression.
Economically, loneliness costs Australia an estimated $2.7 billion annually, or approximately $1,565 per person.
PSA National President A/Prof Fei Sim emphasised the urgency of the initiative saying, "loneliness is not just a social problem as its impact on physical and mental health is clear".
"As accessible and trusted health professionals, pharmacists have a unique opportunity to champion connectivity and social cohesion in our communities."
Kirschner highlighted the initiative's significance saying, "partnering with the PSA to launch the world's first pharmacist training program on loneliness is a watershed moment for the profession".
"Addressing loneliness is deeply personal for me, and the program is my most meaningful work to date.
"Yet, this is just the beginning...there is more work that needs to be done," Kirschner commented.
By empowering pharmacists with this specialised training, the PSA and PALS aim to make a substantial difference in the lives of Australians struggling with loneliness.
To learn more, CLICK HERE. JG
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