“Community pharmacies are open earlier, later and longer – providing accessible, convenient care and connection when it’s needed most. On average Australian’s visit a community pharmacy every three weeks. But we know for some patients, community pharmacies are a lifeline – and seeing their community pharmacist is one of the few times they leave the house” National President Pharmacy Guild of Australia Professor Trent Twomey said.
“I’m proud to raise awareness about the significant health impact of loneliness on physical, mental and cognitive health, and the work of organisations like Pharmacy Addressing Loneliness and Social-isolation (PALS)” Professor Twomey continued.
Community pharmacists have frequent interactions with patients which means they are well positioned to recognise patients at high risk of loneliness, offer a listening ear, educate them on the protective effects of social connection, refer patients to support services and create welcoming, inclusive environments.
The Guild encourages all Australians to visit their local community pharmacy during Loneliness Awareness Week and explore the support available. Many community pharmacies are offering information on holistic health care, hosting community events, and partnering with local organisations to foster connection.
Pharmacy Addressing Loneliness and Social-isolation (PALS) was created by community pharmacist Jenny Kirschner. The organisation has created the World’s First Pharmacist Training program on Loneliness, equipping pharmacists to recognise and respond to signs of loneliness and social isolation – not just in patients but in their friends and colleagues.
Jenny Kirschner, Founder of Pharmacy Addressing Loneliness (PALS), added: "Pharmacists engage with patients an average of 18 times a year. That’s 18 opportunities to notice, to listen, and to act. Community pharmacists can encourage those experiencing loneliness to acknowledge that loneliness is a normal human experience but if it persists, it is important to take steps toward meaningful connections because persistent loneliness has significant impacts of physical, mental and cognitive health outcomes. Our world-first Pharmacist Training Program on Loneliness equips pharmacists to recognise and respond to signs of social isolation—not just in patients, but in themselves and their colleagues."
"I urge all pharmacists, no matter where or how you practise, to take on this opportunity to champion connectivity and social cohesion in our communities," Kirschner said
For more information on Loneliness Awareness Week, visit lonelinessawarenessweek.com.au.