“Dear New Practitioner”

There has been an increased effort to decrease mental health stigma and integrate mental health care into our lives like we would physical fitness. How do you as a new practitioner address mental health with patients?
— Bewildered Buffalo Bill

As a new practitioner, I address mental health with patients by first making sure I am informed myself. Resources like the National Alliance on Mental Illness have education opportunities and guidance on best practices. You may also find continuing education opportunities geared toward pharmacists with organizations like APhA. In addition, it is important that new practitioners build rapport with their patients. Creating a comfortable space can help open dialogue and instill trust. Last, because pharmacists often interact with patients in their day-to-day lives, pharmacists have the opportunity to help a patient recognize a mental health problem and keep them on track with their treatment. New practitioners can consider implementing validated screening tools such as the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ–9) at their practice sites and assist patients in connecting with vital mental health services. 

All-in-all, mental health advocates are likely to agree that the tide is turning with mental health awareness. For our profession to contribute meaningfully to mental health, pharmacists need to be equipped with the knowledge to recognize, the empathy to care, and the tools to take action. — Kathryn Marwitz, PharmD, MPH