Caring for the Caregivers: Mental Health in Dentistry
Forum
By Dr Randhir Seewoodharry Buguth
Dental professionals play a crucial role in society, helping patients achieve good physical and mental well-being by alleviating oral pain and preventing infections. We also ensure that individuals maintain effective chewing capacity for digestion and a socially accepted smile, which is vital for self-esteem.
In the UK, mental health issues are increasingly concerning, with many dental professionals facing challenges stemming from poor working conditions, regulatory pressures, patient litigations, and the decline of NHS dentistry. Alarmingly, some patients are being encouraged by solicitors to sue dentists on a ‘No win, no fee’ basis.
A 2024 survey from the Office for National Statistics indicates that 97% of patients without a dentist were unsuccessful in accessing NHS services. In Warrington, a town between Liverpool and Manchester, people were queuing as early as 2:30 a.m. for NHS dental appointments.
In the UK, mental health issues are increasingly concerning, with many dental professionals facing challenges stemming from poor working conditions, regulatory pressures, patient litigations. Pic – LinkedIn
A recent census of over 3000 dental professionals revealed that 52% have sought help for mental health issues, a 21% increase from 2021. Additionally, 70% of practice principals struggle to unwind after work, and one in four feel insecure in their roles. Males report a better work-life balance (67%) compared to females (45%).
Work-related stress can become overwhelming, leading to burnout. Factors such as micromanagement, poor organization, undervalued staff, and a demotivated team can contribute to anxiety and depression. This not only affects practitioners’ ability to empathize and communicate with patients but can also lead to misdiagnoses and litigation — both highly stressful experiences.
Signs of burnout include lack of energy, disturbed sleep, negative feelings, loss of motivation, and reduced productivity, often accompanied by anxiety and depression. Unfortunately, these issues are not as visible as physical disabilities.
Mental health should no longer be stigmatized; feelings of shame, guilt, or weakness only compound the problem. Everyone is susceptible to mental health issues, which are treatable. Various therapies exist, including lifestyle changes, improved work-life balance, dietary adjustments, exercise, meditation, gardening, socializing, and other recreational activities. Simple pleasures, like reading in a park or enjoying nature, can also provide relief.
Some cases may require medications like antidepressants, which need regular review until stabilization. Support is vital, and confidentiality is crucial in fostering a safe environment for individuals to seek help.
Workplace mental health leads are recommended to enhance communication between staff and management, promoting a positive work ethic and healthy environment. To improve dental health in society, we must prioritize the mental health of dental professionals.
Common stressors often overlooked by the public include falling behind schedule due to complications, striving for technical perfection, late cancellations after preparation, patient non-cooperation, lack of appreciation, and unrealistic patient expectations. Other stress-inducing situations, though less frequent, include equipment breakdowns, unavailability of materials, staffing issues, and patients failing to disclose complete medical histories, often blaming dentists for complications.
Dental professionals also face medical emergencies, such as fainting, asthma attacks, seizures, angina, or adrenal crises, often hoping to manage these situations without needing to call an ambulance.
Despite these challenges, many dentists are among the top 3% earners in the population, achieving six-figure salaries. This success can be attributed to excellent patient communication, careful risk assessment, well-organized procedures, honesty, competency, effective anxiety and pain management, and a willingness to go the extra mile for patients.
Transforming nightmares into dream jobs requires dedication and support. This reflection is timely, as World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2024, reminds us of the importance of mental health awareness in our profession.
Mauritius Times ePaper Friday 25 October 2024
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