Pharmaceutical care of patients with anxiety and depression: Pharmacists' perceptions and barriers in practice

Abstract

The evolving role of pharmacists in managing patients with mental health disorders encompasses structured patient counseling, adherence support, and interprofessional collaboration. This study aimed to assess pharmacists' perceptions of providing care to patients with anxiety and depression. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 143 pharmacists from Serbia and the region between 2022 and 2026. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics and the level of agreement with 10 statements on a Likert scale. Non-parametric statistical tests were applied, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Internal consistency of the instrument was evaluated using Cronbach's Alpha (α anxiety = 0.869; α depression = 0.865). Participants were predominantly female (87.4%), with a mean age of 37.85 ± 10.34 years and 11.92 ± 10.11 years of experience. Most worked in community pharmacies (92.3%). No differences were observed in perceptions between anxiety and depression care, indicating a uniform approach. Furthermore, sociodemographic factors such as gender, age, and additional professional training were not significantly associated with attitudes. The most frequently reported activities were counseling on proper medication use and referring patients to a physician (85.3%). In contrast, direct communication with physicians and systematic patient follow-up were less frequently reported, with more than one-third of pharmacists indicating that they rarely or never engage in these practices. Pharmacists reported consistent counseling on proper medication use for anxiety and depression, with no sociodemographic influence, suggesting a homogeneous practice. However, limited interprofessional communication and outcome monitoring remain areas for improvement, which could further strengthen the pharmacist's role.