Dharmika’s story: Supporting compassionate practice at the General Pharmaceutical Council
Content warning: Reference to suicide and lived experience of poor/ill mental health.
This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional mental health advice.
Igniting open conversations around workplace wellbeing
As a Case Officer at the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), Dharmika T plays a critical role in investigating concerns raised about pharmacy professionals. This involves liaising with a wide range of people, including pharmacy staff, patients, members of the public, and vulnerable individuals, often during emotionally charged and challenging circumstances.
"They later told me that just speaking to someone who listened made a real difference. "
Recognising the emotional demands of the role and a deep personal commitment to mental wellbeing, she sought to build on her existing workplace Mental Health First Aid training by independently completing our qualification, the RSPH Level 3 Award in Mental Health First Aid, delivered by MHFA England®.
Citing her own personal experience of mental health, Dharmika recognised a want and need to support others in the same position:
"I’ve faced my own mental health challenges and understand just how complex and difficult these experiences can be. That lived experience drives my compassion and fuels my desire to support others, whether they’re colleagues, pharmacy professionals, or patients. "
Real life impact of being a Mental Health First Aider
In one particularly distressing case, Dharmika supported a patient who had been dispensed the wrong medication and suffered severe side effects, including thoughts of suicide. Drawing on the ALGEE® action plan from her Mental Health First Aid training, Dharmika was able to assess the patient’s immediate needs, provide a safe and supportive space to talk, and signpost them to relevant crisis services and mental health resources.
"The patient later told me that just speaking to someone who listened made a real difference. They now have the right medication and the support they need and know that they can come back to me if they need help again. "
Building a resilient and supportive workplace
Mental Health First Aid training has not only helped her support others it’s also changed how she supports herself. As someone with ADHD, she’s developed daily strategies like taking regular breaks and staying physically active through part-time dog walking to manage her focus and wellbeing.
"Mental Health First Aid training is invaluable for anyone like me in a people-facing role. It helps us support others effectively while also reflecting on our own wellbeing."
The training has encouraged her and her colleagues to check in with each other, especially while working remotely: “It’s helped us stay connected as a team, even from a distance. It’s given us a shared language around mental health and the confidence to start important conversations.”
A culture of empathy and understanding
As a queer South Asian woman, Dharmika also highlights the cultural and social barriers to mental health in underrepresented communities. Through her training and advocacy, she’s committed to reducing stigma and fostering inclusive, compassionate support both within and outside the workplace.
"What stood out most in the Mental Health First Aid course were the role plays and real-life scenarios. They made me feel confident in how to approach sensitive conversations. The course was delivered by the Instructor Member with genuine empathy and respect. Doing so created a safe space where lived experience was acknowledged and valued."
Why MHFA England training matters
Training with MHFA England has equipped Dharmika and others in her profession with practical, life-changing tools: the ability to recognise early signs of mental ill health, confidently offer support, and signpost to professional help.
"Mental Health First Aid training is invaluable for anyone like me in a people-facing role. It helps us support others effectively while also reflecting on our own wellbeing. I don’t know what would have happened to the person I supported who was having thoughts of suicide had I not had this training and been able to step in and ask the right questions and provide support. I truly believe MHFA England’s work is helping change workplace culture for the better, one conversation at a time. "
Empower your teams to build mentally healthy workplace
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Join the Association of Mental Health First Aiders
Mental Health First Aiders do a fantastic job of helping to support the mental health of others, but that doesn't mean they don't also need ongoing support.
With the Association of Mental Health First Aiders®, training doesn't stop when the course comes to an end. We offer continuous support for MHFAiders® – well beyond their initial certification – to make sure people have everything they need to feel confident when supporting others.
As a training organisation, we can’t provide mental health support, but there are lots of people who can. In an emergency, please contact 999 immediately or go to your nearest Accident and Emergency (A&E). If you need medical help fast, but it’s not a 999 emergency, contact the NHS by dialling 111.
Visit our contact page for further details on UK-based organisations and charities who can help provide mental health support.