Since people may be reluctant to seek help for anxiety, it is helpful to include educational and signposting information about anxiety in the pharmacy so they know that help is available. 

Pharmacy staff can help patients to adhere to their prescribed anti-anxiety treatment by providing relevant information about the treatment (i.e. that a response is not immediate; a transient worsening of symptoms can sometimes occur, and prolonged courses are needed to maintain an initial treatment response). 

The patient may also be helped by reassurance that the symptoms should subside after the first few weeks, and should be told to report any adverse effects and discuss any concerns about stopping the treatment with the prescriber.

Reflective exercises

• Explore what anxiety self-help resources are available online so you know the kind of help that is on offer
• Some local NHS services that offer psychological therapies accept self-referral. Find out what is available in your area so that you can signpost where needed.