PJ, February 2020, Vol 304, No 7934

‘Pharmacy first’ is a big opportunity

The expansion of Scotland’s minor ailments service is welcome, but pharmacy teams need support to deliver it.…

Cognitive behavioural therapy: breaking the cycle

The most common alternative to pharmacological treatment offered to patients with depression and anxiety by the NHS is cognitive behavioural therapy, or ‘CBT’. This guide details how it works.…

Antidepressants are being used as stopgaps: patients need a range of therapies now

GPs need shorter waiting times for their patients, more training and a greater range of psychological therapies to refer to so that antidepressants are no longer used as a ‘stopgap’.…

Fun but gimmicky show puts competing health theories to the test

Although it does not present any revolutionary ideas, The Twinstitute takes a fun look at health fads and alternatives to common medicines.…

Schizophrenia: recognition and management

Common medicines used to manage schizophrenia have many side effects that can cause significant morbidity. Regular monitoring and support can ensure patients improve outcomes.…

A day in the life of a consultant clinical psychotherapist

Dan White combines cognitive behavioural therapy and clinical pharmacy to train colleagues and help patients with mental health conditions.…

What role can pharmacy play in the social prescribing revolution?

The number of social prescribing staff has more than doubled in the past year, but pharmacy has yet to engage with schemes that can help patients with their wellbeing.…

Gwyneth Paltrow’s health show is a quintessentially ‘LA’ mish-mash of self-indulgence

‘The Goop Lab’ offers viewers an insight into controversial and costly alternative wellness therapies — be prepared to take it with a pinch of salt.…

Storytelling, music and song: how psychosocial approaches to dementia change lives

While medicines can be an important part of dementia treatment, there are doubts over whether they provide meaningful benefits for patients. As a result, emphasis is being placed on non-pharmacological approaches, some of which have had a transformative impact on the lives of patients with deme…

Encouraging self-care and positive lifestyle changes in patients with depression

Non-pharmacological interventions, such as maintaining good sleep hygiene and a healthy diet, can help improve, resolve or prevent depression.…