How pharmacists can protect their mental health during COVID-19

There’s no question that we’re living in challenging times. With no end in sight for COVID-19, stress levels are taking a mental toll on everyone—patients and healthcare workers alike. Not only are patients still burdened with uncertainty, but pharmacists are also overwhelmed from the impacts of the virus. According to one review, those with pre-existing conditions or coronavirus infection had the highest rates of anxiety and depression (56% and 55%, respectively), which were similar to those found in healthcare workers and the general public. 

As communities continue adapting to a new way of life, pharmacists are being called upon for guidance. The NABP has even granted temporary or emergency licensure for pharmacists to address the public health crisis and lend support in different states. While dealing with additional responsibilities, it’s important for pharmacists to look after their mental health, for themselves and their patients. 

A growing burden on pharmacists during COVID-19

Pharmacists are bearing the brunt of community spread as frontline workers. In helping their communities, pharmacists counsel patients and provide the latest approaches for managing illness. As a first point of contact for many sick patients, pharmacists are often faced with fears of contracting the virus. Inadequate support and long hours can also add stress and increase the risk of pharmacist burnout. 

Additionally, physicians and other healthcare workers are turning to pharmacists for drug information and updates on drug shortages. In the first six months of 2020 alone, medication shortages have already reached 87% the number of shortages in 2019. These shortages force pharmacists to make important decisions and prioritize patients who need certain drugs the most. These situations can disrupt the quality of care and cause patient dissatisfaction, which can also affect pharmacists’ mental health. 

The accessibility of pharmacists has enabled patients to get medical advice from around the corner. Yet, many patients can be demanding, frustrated, and stressed due to a number of reasons. These emotions can sometimes escalate and lead to further impacts on the mental health of pharmacists. In an age of misinformation, patient misconceptions and flippant attitudes about the virus can be taxing on pharmacists. 

Avoid pharmacist burnout during COVID-19

So, how can you, as a pharmacist, look after your mental health during COVID-19? Anxiety and stress is normal, but it can sometimes lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms like under- or overeating, sleep problems, or detaching from other healthy habits. When handled effectively, however, learning to manage stress can help you build resilience in the face of adversity. Here are some ways that you can protect your mental health during COVID-19. 

Take all precautions

If you haven’t already, you should take all precautions you can to reduce the risk of infection in your pharmacy. Wearing a mask, enforcing social distancing, and regularly sterilizing the workspace can help alleviate excessive fear or anxiety. 

Get plenty of rest

Sleep is one of your greatest weapons in ensuring your immune system stays in top shape. Good sleep hygiene and proper rest also helps reduce stress and balance your mood. Try to get seven to nine hours of sleep every night to boost alertness and keep your mind sharp. 

Maintain proper diet and exercise

During stressful times, it can be easy to neglect healthy eating habits and exercise routines. But now is the best time to take care of your diet and stay consistent with your fitness goals. Even going outside for a 30-minute walk—since gyms may be closed—can help you get your daily vitamin D and clear your mind. You can make it a point to also stay hydrated at and outside of work. 

Set time aside to unwind

Take time to unwind after work and try not to get caught up in negativity, especially on social media. Setting aside just 10 to 15 minutes for mindful meditation can help settle your thoughts, improve your focus, and manage stress. Instead of reviewing public health updates every hour, you may also want to limit your time spent tracking coronavirus news to certain points of the day. 

Reframe the situation

It can be easy to complain or feel stuck in stressful situations. However, rather than focusing on the negative aspects of the situation, you can use this time as an opportunity to learn new skills or push new limits. Rather than cope with the stress, you can choose to thrive during stressful times.

Seek help and support from others

Remember not to socially isolate yourself, and keep in touch with friends and family members. It’s also not a bad idea to get help from a mental health professional. Overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, or depressed pharmacists  can seek help and support from a therapist or counselor. Talking through your struggles can help preserve your sanity and support your mental health.