Pharmacy Daily | Pharmacists at higher risk of suicide

NEW data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has revealed around 43% (or 8.5 million) of Australians aged 16-85 have experienced a mental disorder at some point in their lives.

In 2022 alone, one in nine Australians reported experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder.

Additionally, over 45.6 million mental health-related medications were dispensed, with 18% of Australians filling a prescription related to this area of concern.

The report also highlights the vulnerability of individuals with mental illness to develop comorbid physical illnesses and their lower life expectancy compared to the general population.

Pharmacy Daily spoke to the Pharmacists' Support Service (PSS), which provides support to Australian pharmacists, interns, and students, to understand the particular challenges faced by pharmacists, who have a higher risk of suicide than the general public.

"We know that pharmacists experience increased stress levels compared to the general population," stated Kay Dunkley, Executive Officer of PSS.

"This increases the risk of burnout and poor mental health.

"Pharmacists have access to the means for suicide and the knowledge about lethal doses, and there is evidence that Australian pharmacists also have a higher suicide rate compared to the general population."

Dunkley further emphasised the importance of mental health and wellbeing, particularly for frontline pharmacists responsible for caring for patients in the community.

"Post COVID-19, there is a significant level of burnout in the pharmacy profession with continuing challenges and changes to practice.

"Pharmacy though is a resilient profession and adapts well to the challenges we face by expanding practice and improving what we do."

She added that immunisation services are a great example of that, "however, each person must focus on their own self-care and ensure we have time for ourselves".

"We must also look out for each other and support our colleagues on a day-to-day basis through compassion and kindness in our varied workplaces."

For those in need, PSS remains available daily on 1300 244 910, offering vital support. JG