Community Pharmacists’ Views on Mental Health in Malaysia
Author Information
Author(s): Mok Shien Loong, Chuah Jing Ying, Lee Kun Jin, Lim Yee Dom, Appalasamy Jamuna Rani, Saw Pui San
Primary Institution: Monash University Malaysia
Hypothesis
What are community pharmacists' views on their roles in mental health screening and management?
Conclusion
Community pharmacists are willing to take on a primary role in mental health services, but face challenges such as lack of training and social stigma.
Supporting Evidence
- Community pharmacists are often the first point of contact for patients seeking help.
- Participants emphasized the need for training and standardized tools for mental health care.
- Social stigma around mental health issues affects the willingness of patients to seek help.
- Many pharmacists expressed a desire for more structured guidelines and support from the government.
- CPs reported challenges such as lack of time and resources to provide adequate mental health services.
Takeaway
Community pharmacists can help people with mental health issues, but they need more training and support to do it well.
Methodology
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with community pharmacists, and data was thematically analyzed.
Potential Biases
The purposive recruitment of participants may lead to skewed perspectives.
Limitations
The study's findings may be influenced by the geographic locations of the pharmacies and the personal experiences of the participants.
Participant Demographics
60% female, 75% aged 25-35, 95% Chinese, 5% Malay.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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