In this episode, hosts Jo Lane and Hayley Berry are joined by Ami Hale, a mental health pharmacist at Sussex Partnership Foundation Trust, and Graham Newton, Lead Pharmacist for Education and Training at Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust. Together, they delve into the vital and sometimes challenging topic of mental health in pharmacy practice.

The discussion explores the complexities of having difficult conversations with patients, particularly around suicide, medicines optimisation and deprescribing in mental health. Ami and Graham share their experiences and insights on how pharmacy professionals can navigate sensitive discussions with empathy, confidence and professionalism.

If you’re a pharmacy professional looking to enhance your confidence in mental health consultations, or considering a career in mental health pharmacy, this episode provides valuable insights and expert guidance.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this episode, listeners will be able to:

• Demonstrate active listening and effective communication skills when engaging in difficult conversations with patients about mental health, including discussions around suicide and deprescribing.
• Evaluate the role of pharmacy professionals in supporting patients with mental health conditions, including risk assessment, safeguarding and signposting to appropriate services.
• Develop a reflective approach to managing emotionally challenging conversations, recognising personal limitations and implementing strategies to maintain professional wellbeing while supporting patients effectively.

Resources mentioned

• CPPE’s Mental health learning gateway for links to a variety of resources
• CPPE, Shared decision making e-course
• NHS England Workforce Training and Education, We need to talk about suicide e-learning
• NICE guideline [NG22], Depression in adults: treatment and management – Recommendations
• Royal College of Psychiatrists, Stopping antidepressants
• Zero Suicide Alliance, ZSA Suicide Awareness Training