Over the last few years, mental health issues have been gaining prominence on health agendas and have received particular attention since the COVID-19 pandemic. The scenario has worsened during the pandemic period, where anxiety and depression have increased significantly in all EU countries, primarily affecting young people and women belonging to the most vulnerable groups in society and facing financial difficulties1. Benefiting from the broad reach of the pharmacy network and its close relationship with people, the community pharmacy can help identify, support, and refer people at risk, who are in isolation (social or geographical) and have mental health problems. It can actively contribute to social prescription initiatives.
1. OECD/European Union (2022). Health at a Glance: Europe 2022: State of Health in the EU Cycle. OECD Publishing. 2022. doi:10.1787/507433b0-en.