A qualitative study of community pharmacists in New Zealand: mental health literacy and the barriers and facilitators to providing and receiving mental healthcare in community pharmacies

Abstract

Background

Community pharmacists (CPs) play a valuable role in the provision of mental healthcare in primary care settings; however, CPs may not be comfortable or confident doing so. Mental health literacy (MHL) of CPs and consumers, alongside factors in community pharmacies may contribute to this.

Objective

The aims of this study were to explore how MHL may affect the provision and receipt of mental healthcare in community pharmacies, and the perceived barriers and facilitators for CPs in providing mental healthcare.

Methods

Participants were recruited from a sample of respondents to a prior national survey of MHL in CPs. Thirteen CPs with a mean age of 40 years, comprising participants from both independent and chain pharmacies were recruited. Individual, semi-structured interviews were conducted, followed by professional transcription and thematic analysis.

Results

Analysis revealed five main themes describing factors related to MHL and also the provision of mental healthcare services in community pharmacies: 1) Complexities in the understanding of and recognition and management of mental illness; 2) Attitudes and experiences of CPs in supporting mental health needs; 3) Prevention and management of mental illness needing a collaborative approach; 4) Opportunities and challenges within community pharmacies to support mental healthcare needs; and 5) Preparedness and willingness of CPs to provide mental healthcare.

Conclusions

CPs identified several MHL-related factors that could affect mental healthcare delivery by CPs and consumers receiving care. CPs also described several ways to enhance preparedness to deliver mental healthcare in community pharmacies including working collaboratively with other healthcare providers.