Happy World Pharmacists Day from the Pharmacists’ Support Service! Check out this article about the work and history of PSS and why you should consider reaching out to us for support. PSS is available for free and confidential support at 1300 244 910, 8am-11pm AEDT everyday — don’t hesitate to reach out if you would like a listening ear from a fellow pharmacist who understands.
“Supporting Pharmacists, Supporting Communities”
Pharmacists are vital frontline healthcare professionals, but behind the counter, many pharmacists can face immense pressures due to complex workloads and changing scope. Acknowledging the dynamic nature of the profession, the Pharmacists’ Support Service (PSS) has been there for pharmacists across Australia since 1995. Built on the principle of pharmacists supporting pharmacists, PSS offers a confidential and understanding ear for Australians in the profession doing it tough.

As PSS President Curtis Ruhnau explains: “It could be about anything. It doesn’t have to be work-related. It could be home life related as well, or anything else.”
Since our national expansion in 2011, PSS has supported thousands of pharmacists, responding to over 500 calls annually from those seeking help. When a pharmacist contacts us, they can expect to hear a peer on the other side of the line who has received in-depth training to provide empathetic and practical guidance.
Partnerships with global healthcare companies like Viatris allow us to extend our reach and impact. We work alongside Viatris’ sales representatives to help ensure pharmacists are aware of PSS as a resource when they need it. It’s a powerful way for sales reps to provide support for their pharmacist colleagues and communities, foster deeper connections, and create a culture of caring across the profession.
At PSS, we see how important mental well-being is for pharmacists every day. We’re proud to be able to provide that support for our peers and see the positive contributions it has on communities.
As Ruhnau says: “We’re not alone in this and it’s OK to open up that everything feels a bit too much sometimes.”

We’re not alone in this and it’s OK to open up that everything feels a bit too much sometimes.