A qualitative study exploring opportunities for pharmacists to connect with young mental health consumers

Abstract Objectives To explore how pharmacists can best support young people using medication for any mental health condition. The experiences of obtaining or supplying psychotropic medication and recommendations for service improvement were explored from the perspectives of young people, community pharmacists and key stakeholders. Design Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with young people and pharmacists, and the Nominal Group Technique as a consensus method for stakeholders. Setting Face-to-face interviews with 18 young people and a nominal group with six stakeholders were conducted at one of two mental health support organizations in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Phone conversations were held with 11 pharmacists Australia-wide. Participants Young people were between 14-25 years of age, used any mental health medication for the last two months and lived in the community. Pharmacists recognized as mental health advocates or providing a mental health service, and stakeholders from one support organization, were purposively recruited. Outcome measures Themes related to the current and potential role/s for pharmacists when interacting with young people using psychotropic medication. Results There was limited awareness of the role of pharmacists, possible due to the largely transactional nature of young people's pharmacy experiences. However, young people perceived value in receiving information from pharmacists about their psychotropic medication, specifically side effects and interactions with alcohol and other recreational drugs. Respectful communication and access to a private space to discuss sensitive matters were identified as ways that pharmacists could encourage the development of supportive relationships with young people. Conclusion This study provides unique insights about the experiences of young people using psychotropic medication within the community pharmacy setting. There is an imperative for pharmacists to move beyond a transactional or reactive approach to create a safe health space and address young people's concerns about medication beyond initial supply.