As healthcare professionals, we’re always talking about how to improve our patients’ general health. However, it is essential that we look after ourselves and our colleagues as well. This is something I am very passionate about and reflect on whenever the opportunity presents.
We celebrate Mental Health Awareness week in May every year and, for 2024, I encouraged all my dental colleagues to consider their own wellbeing. Dentistry has been proved time and time again to be a particularly stressful profession, and this can have a detrimental impact on our mental health.
Heart-breaking statistics show that suicide remains high across the population, with just over 6,500 deaths by suicide reported in 2018. Figures from 2022 found that three-quarters of all registered suicides were males. Those aged 50-54 years of any gender also had the highest suicide rate, although rates also remained high among females aged 20-24 years.
Forms of support
Ensuring appropriate support for all healthcare providers, including dental professionals, is crucial. This should include both physical and emotional assistance to allow individuals to fulfil their roles to the best of their abilities without compromising their wellbeing. Several programmes have been developed in response to the pandemic and show promising results in this area, though more research is needed to determine the most effective support method.
On a more local level, peer-to-peer support can be just as impactful for individuals who may be struggling. A paper from the British Medical Journal demonstrated that this kind of support can increase recovery from mental illness and improve self-efficacy.
For practice principals, it’s important to consider offering access to mental health training for any staff members who might be interested. As an employer, you have a duty of care to do what you can to support your team’s mental health with any reasonable measures possible. The ‘Thriving at Work’ report from the health and safety executive can help ensure you are effectively communicating options and supporting mental health within your business.
Beyond legal requirements, it is up to us all as individuals to look out for our colleagues as well. A simple text or call to someone you suspect may be feeling low could go a long way.
Sometimes all someone needs is to not feel alone, or to be listened to. For those you believe need more structured help, consider encouraging them to access one of the many mental health resources available online or in-person across the country. Is it important conversations are approached with sensitivity and without judgement, and it is likely your actions will be greatly appreciated.
As we all continue to promote mental health awareness, don’t forget to check in on your dental colleagues as well as your patients. And if you’re feeling the strain, please don’t be afraid to ask for help.