Pharmacy students are being encouraged to take immediate action to support their mental health and wellbeing.
Pharmacist Support is hosting the annual Student ACTNow wellbeing campaign, in which it calls on MPharm students to put their wellbeing first and access free, year-round support designed specifically for their pharmacy journey. The campaign launches on University Mental Health Day on March 12. As an added incentive, every student who signs up by March 12 will receive an exclusive Mental Health and Wellbeing Virtual Toolbox. The toolbox contains practical guidance and resources aimed at tackling common causes of stress and helping students kick start a sustainable wellbeing routine.
It comes as Student Minds, the UK charity for student mental health, reports that one in three university students experiences poor mental wellbeing, with 30 per cent saying their mental health has worsened since starting university. The most common causes of stress include performing well academically, keeping up with study, managing time, managing money and balancing study with paid employment. Pharmacy students face additional pressures linked to demanding academic programmes, placements and preparing for professional registration. Without the right support, these challenges can significantly impact confidence, resilience and overall wellbeing.
Pharmacist Support recognises its responsibility to provide meaningful and practical support for the next generation of pharmacists. Alongside its core support services, the charity runs its annual Student ACTNow campaign to motivate students to prioritise their mental health and equip them with tools to make wellbeing a daily habit rather than an afterthought. This year’s campaign encourages pharmacy students to sign up to the charity’s free e-newsletter to access year-round mental health and wellbeing support. Subscribers receive tailored resources designed to help navigate every stage of a pharmacy career, from preparing for exams and becoming trainee pharmacists, to transitioning into registered pharmacy professionals and independent prescribers.
Danielle Hunt, Chief Executive of Pharmacist Support (pictured), commented: “University can be an exciting and rewarding time, but it can also bring pressure as pharmacy students balance academic demands and financial pressures, often while thinking ahead to their future careers. Student ACTNow is about encouraging small, positive actions that protect mental health now and build resilience for the future. By staying connected with the charity, students can access practical support and guidance throughout their studies and into their professional lives. No one should feel they have to navigate these challenges alone.”
The 2026 Student ACTNow campaign is once again supported by Boots and the PDA. Its continued sponsorship enables dedicated investment in the development of high-quality wellbeing resources that are shared free of charge with students.
Paul Day, Director at the PDA, added: “The PDA is dedicated to supporting our members’ mental, physical and financial wellbeing while they are at university or work. The Pharmacist Support ACTNow initiative helps raise everyone’s awareness of their own wellbeing, and just as importantly that of their colleagues, so that they can take appropriate action.”
