With the current uncertainty and disruption that we’re facing, which is impacting the mental health and well-being of many, communities are reminded that pharmacies are key places that can help foster preventative mental health strategies.
As some of the most accessible healthcare professionals, community pharmacy staff can provide a supporting role within community mental health support, and anyone facing mental well-being challenges is urged to initiate a conversation with their local community pharmacist.
‘Many more people with concerns surrounding their mental health’
Blooms The Chemist’s Burwood Pharmacist and owner, Zena Daher, shares the impact and prevalence of mental well-being challenges currently experienced in her local community, and the vital role pharmacists play in being an essential resource for people to get support and advice.
“During this time of great need pharmacists are a friendly, familiar face in the local community, often knowing multiple generations across one family, and we take great pride in being approachable, easily accessible and take great care for any mental well-being needs presented in our stores,” Ms Daher said.
“We’re noticing many more people with concerns surrounding their mental health, or that of a family member or friend. Unfortunately, not everyone is ready to speak to their doctor, and often just want to share how they’re feeling, which pharmacists are well placed to help.”
Ms Daher says that while mental health is often seen as separate from physical well-being, the actual fact is that they “go hand in hand”.
“While society feels comfortable with the message to stay active, eat well and look after their physical state, there is still a stigma surrounding mental well-being that leads to people feeling more isolated and helpless to ask for support,” she said.
Ms Daher says that while professional help is always advised for someone struggling with their mental health, people can implement preventative strategies in their day-to-day lives to better support their mental well-being.
“With research supporting the link between poor sleep health and poor mental health, Pharmacists can help people quickly assess their overall sleep health and habits,” she said.
“It’s also important people get regular reviews of medications that impact mental health and advice on potential supplements that may assist in supporting mental health balance.”
Strategies to support mental well-being
Blooms The Chemist has identified the following strategies that all Australians can use to support their mental well-being:
- Get more sleep. Our brain needs time to unwind at the end of each day. To wind down and prepare for sleep, try practising relaxation techniques before bed, take a warm bath or listen to soothing music. Make sure your bedroom is dark, cool and quiet.
- Choose a ‘worry period’ during the day. Choose a set time and place for worrying. It should be the same time each day and early enough that it won’t make you anxious before bed.
- Make face-to-face social connections. Most people need the company of others to feel and function at their best. Phone calls and social networks are great ways to connect with your friends and family, but nothing can beat a face-to-face catch-up.
- Eat a healthy-mind diet. Everyone responds differently to certain food so experiment with how the food you include in, or cut out, from your diet affects your mood. Make sure you eat a balanced diet and reduce processed foods where possible.
- Keep physically active. Physical activity releases powerful chemicals called endorphins, that lift your mood and boost your energy. Aim for 30 minutes of activity each day and try to mix the exercise up to engage your whole body.
- Manage your stress. Everyone manages stress in different ways so find what works for you. It is important to be able to recognise when you are stressed so that you don’t let it build up until it is too hard to manage.
