“More Help in Battle to Beat Stress

PHARMACISTS are to offer a helping hand to those searching for a way to deal with stress or anxiety.

A pilot scheme using posters in Renfrewshire pharmacies will seek out those who inappropriately self medicate by buying over-the- counter medicines for sleep disorders, anxiety and stress.

Pharmacists who have undergone mental health first aid training will offer the free service in selected outlets around the area.

If necessary, appointments will be available with a stress therapist who can arrange individual counselling at the pharmacy, or refer them to Renfrewshire Association for Mental Health.

The therapists are attached to local project Live Life, who trained the pharmacists and helped fund the project.

If it is successful, it is thought the scheme could be expanded.

Originally published by Newsquest Media Group.

(c) 2007 Evening Times; Glasgow (UK). Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.