Pharmacists' knowledge and attitudes regarding their role in depression management: Insights into opportunities for improved practices

This study aimed to evaluate community pharmacists' knowledge, attitudes, practices, and obstacles concerning depression management, as well as the factors linked to their attitudes and practices. This cross-sectional study surveyed 407 community pharmacists using convenience sampling. Participants completed a validated questionnaire administered in person by a research pharmacist. A quantile regression was performed to investigate the factors associated with pharmacists' attitudes and practices regarding depression management. The pharmacists reported insufficient knowledge but exhibited a favourable attitude and a high level of practice in depression management. Nevertheless, several barriers were reported. Factors associated with higher attitude scores included working in chain community pharmacies, having less than 1 year, or 1-10 years of, and a higher knowledge score. Higher attitude scores were associated with improved practice levels, with those having 1-10 years of experience also reported frequent practice behaviours. Lack of training and insufficient knowledge represented the most frequent barriers to providing effective depression management. Although pharmacists exhibited favourable attitudes and effective practices regarding depression management, they identified a need for improved knowledge, did not feel they could effectively assist patients with depression, and reported various barriers to providing these services in community pharmacies. Future efforts should focus on integrating specialized mental health training into pharmacy curricula. Additionally, educational programs and workshops addressing these barriers could enhance pharmacists' knowledge, confidence, and proactive involvement in depression management.