In Clinical

“I just didn’t know what was happening to me,” says 15-year-old Mia, sitting in a sunlit corner of the local community café. Her voice trembles as she recounts the whirlwind of emotions that swept over her during the pandemic. Isolation felt suffocating, and her struggles escalated as she faced the dual burden of academic pressures and social media expectations. Today, her story echoes a disheartening reality: one in five children and young people in England grapple with mental health problems, a staggering rise of 50 percent since 2017.

The Rising Tide of Adolescent Mental Health Issues

According to MIND’s Big Mental Health Report 2024, only a third of affected youth have been able to access treatment, leaving countless others adrift in their struggles. “Many young people face multiple pressures—poverty, inequality, and an unyielding online world,” explains Olly Parker, head of external affairs and research at YoungMinds. “It’s no wonder so many are slipping through the cracks.”

The postcode lottery of mental health services exacerbates the crisis. Lengthy waits for care can have detrimental effects, with many young individuals becoming increasingly unwell before receiving help, which sometimes escalates into a need for urgent care. However, in a glimmer of hope, Parker notes, “Around half of pupils in England now have access to mental health support teams in schools, a figure that is set to increase significantly this year.” By 2029/30, the government aims for universal access to this crucial support.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Experts like Dr. Beryl Navti, a consultant pharmacist for child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) at North East London NHS Foundation Trust, emphasize the critical nature of early intervention. “At least half of all lifetime mental health problems manifest by age 14 and 75 percent by age 25,” she states. Early action can make a difference.

• Normalize conversations about mental health.
• Reduce stigma surrounding these issues.
• Help young people understand their challenges better.

Young individuals often feel ostracized due to their mental health struggles. Addressing these challenges early, says Navti, is crucial in fostering understanding and empathy. “It not only normalizes these conversations but also enhances the likelihood of positive outcomes,” she adds.

Supporting Mental Health through Community Pharmacists

Community pharmacies can play an integral role in this landscape. Pharmacists like Claire Anderson, president of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, advocate for creating supportive spaces tailored for young individuals. “Pharmacies should have quiet areas for private conversations and communicate in a relatable, jargon-free language,” she advises.

Pharmacists can also collaborate with local schools and youth services to support health campaigns, deliver talks, and link with general practitioners (GPs) and school nurses. “It’s about tailoring care to meet the specific needs of young people,” Anderson emphasizes.

Medication Support and Safety

While pharmacists do not replace specialist services, their role in medication support is vital. NICE guidelines recommend considering pharmaceutical treatment in conjunction with psychological intervention for moderate to severe depression in young people, with fluoxetine often prescribed as the first-line treatment.

Yet, caution is necessary. “The initial weeks of treatment present an increased risk of suicidal thoughts,” warns Navti. “It’s essential to closely monitor these young individuals.” Should a patient disclose suicidal ideation, pharmacists are obligated to escalate this concern to the GP or CAMHS team for urgent attention.

Active Support from the Pharmacy

Pharmacists can do more than dispense medication; they can serve as ongoing support. Regular check-ins during medication pickups, offering advice on managing side effects, and ensuring proper medication storage are all ways pharmacists can assist young patients.

Additionally, community pharmacies can provide information on local activities that promote mental wellness. “Whether it’s sports, creative arts, or social groups, linking young people with these resources can make a significant difference,” recommends Alexa Knight, director of England at the Mental Health Foundation.

Pharmacies can engage in awareness campaigns, such as Mental Health Awareness Week, and host workshops or information sessions that empower the youth while creating a sense of community.

Conclusion

Mia’s experience is not unique, but understanding and collaboration among healthcare providers, educators, and community services can pave the way for a more supportive framework for young people struggling with mental health issues. As more initiatives come into play and the conversation around mental health becomes less stigmatized, there lies hope for a brighter future where no young person feels alone in their fight. As Mia leaves the café, there’s a sense of resilience in her step; she knows she’s not just a statistic, but part of a growing movement toward understanding and recovery.

Source: www.pharmacymagazine.co.uk