A Nova SBE report, 'Self‑medication in Portugal: Practices, Determinants and Behavioural Profiles', finds that 51.85% of respondents have self‑medicated at some point. The practice is especially common among younger people, those with higher education and people without a family doctor, and is being used for mental health issues as well as physical complaints. Most people do not inform their doctor about self‑medication, prompting experts to warn of risks for mental health and for patients with chronic conditions. The study highlights gaps in access to primary care and the need for better patient education and reporting practices.