Overdose
& Poisoning

For Pharmacists

Pharmacists are in a unique position to support those in need due to their accessibility and trust, frequent interactions with healthcare clients and mental health consumers, access to medical records, and distribution of mental health and highly lethal medications. While pharmacists are not trained to diagnose mental health conditions, they can play a role in recognizing potential signs of suicide or serve as a resource for individuals seeking help.

The following list outlines a few examples of how pharmacists can act to prevent suicide: 

  • Exercise active listening, compassion, and empathy.
  • Receive training to identify and screen individuals for suicide risk.
  • Disseminate crisis support and suicide prevention resources.
  • Add suicide prevention crisis resources to pharmacy bags.
  • Ensure protocols are in place for referring people to additional mental health support.
  • Collaborate with other healthcare team members.

Suicide Prevention Resources for Pharmacists: The following resources were developed to assist pharmacists in learning to identify the warning signs for suicide and have conversations with and provide resources to patients in need.