FIP: Pharmacists play increasingly pivotal role in managing mental health

THE HAGUE, Netherlands — The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) on Saturday will publish “Focus on mental health: The contribution of the pharmacist” to highlight the increasing roles that pharmacists and their national associations are taking in mental health care on what will be World Mental Health Day.

 

The document gives an overview of the areas in mental health care in which pharmacists are involved, including health promotion, early detection, triage, optimizing treatment outcomes, education (including addiction prevention), shaping public policies, research and interprofessional practice. 

 

“Delivery of these initiatives requires a different skill mix and a different attitude to health," stated Gabriel Ivbijaro, president elect of the World Federation for Mental Health. "For many people experiencing mental health problems, pharmacists and family doctors are likely to be their first point of contact. Pharmacists have a significant role to play if we are to make mental health for all a global reality.” 

 

Gaps in the mental health care have long been acknowledged and global initiatives to address these gaps include the movement towards universal health coverage, the World Health Organization’s Mental Health Gap Action Programme and the WHO Mental Health Action Plan 2013–2020. 

 

Through its global network, FIP has drawn together numerous examples of pharmacy-led mental health activities from around the world and, through this new report, it is sharing them with the whole profession and stakeholders.

 

“This FIP ‘Focus on mental health’ report gives excellent examples of how pharmacists and pharmaceutical organizations are making a practical difference to mental health care, and we urge others to come on board and be active partners," Ivbijaro said.

 

“It is becoming increasingly recognized that a comprehensive approach is needed in mental health care. This document helps to identify pharmacists as an important yet underused resource that can provide tremendous support to meet current and future challenges related to mental health,” said Luc Besançon, FIP CEO and general secretary. “With this report, FIP encourages pharmacists and their associations, as well as stakeholders, to work towards good mental health around the globe.”