First-year medical student Hirsh Makhija (Medicine) is lead author of a study that shows pharmacists in United States face a significantly higher risk of suicide compared to the general population. The study, published in the American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, showed that pharmacists overall had a 21% increased risk during the 2011 to 2022 study period. The researchers looked into the factors driving suicide deaths among pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, finding that job-related stress was significant.

Makhija, who teamed with researchers from UC San Diego, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barnes Jewish Hospital and Northeastern University says “while wellness promotion has slowly progressed for the pharmacy workforce, substantial gaps remain.” Results of the study suggest that easily accessible mental healthcare and suicide prevention strategies are warranted for the pharmacy workforce, with proactive consideration for those experiencing mental health issues on the job.