The stress, satisfaction, and fulfilment of early career pharmacists – a qualitative study of their professional and personal lives

Background and Objectives: Early career pharmacists are reportedly highly stressed and burnt out. Developing interventions to support their well-being requires an understanding of the factors that affect their stress, satisfaction, and fulfilment. This study aims to examine and develop a better understanding of: 1) the factors that affect the stress of both their professional and personal lives, 2) the aspects of professional and personal life that affect their satisfaction and fulfilment, and 3) what they need to achieve satisfaction and fulfilment in their professional and personal lives. Methods: A cross-sectional study using a questionnaire was developed. The questionnaire contained 8 questions designed to collect qualitative data on the factors affecting the stress, satisfaction, and fulfilment in the professional and personal lives of early career pharmacists. Questionnaire responses were analysed using a qualitative content analysis approach and themes describing influential factors were developed. Results and Discussion: Some of the factors that contribute to the stress, satisfaction and fulfilment of early career pharmacists were identified. The stressors identified include the workplace environment and relationships with colleagues, the demands of a pharmacist career, the lack of career advancement pathways, job insecurity, relationships, and their weaknesses. Factors contributing to satisfaction and fulfilment included supportive work environments and relationships, being appreciated and making a difference, growth, supportive relationships, and self-care. Conclusion: Supporting the well-being of early career pharmacists is important for a resilient, engaged, and effective pharmacy workforce. Key interventions include eliminating job insecurity, establishing clear career pathways, improving work environments and relationships, and investing in skills development.