The World Health Organization defines mental health as: “a state of wellbeing in which every individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community’’.
Dental Practitioner Support is committed to supporting dental practitioners and dental students to meet the WHO definition of mental health and enhance their quality of life.
Those in the dental profession can be exposed to stress at work or during study, as well as psychological, cognitive and physical demands which may negatively impact mental health.
If you are experiencing a mental health issue, it might affect your ability to competently and safely do your work. This could place you and the public at risk of harm.
No one is immune to experiencing a mental health issue. Almost half of the Australian population aged between 16 and 85, will experience a mental illness in their lifetime with 20 percent of adults affected by a mental illness every year. However, less than half of those experiencing a mental illness will access support and treatment (National Mental Health Commission, 2014).
Mental health conditions require the same degree of support and treatment as any health condition.
In Australia, depression and anxiety are the highest presenting mental health issues.
Dental Practitioner Support is here to talk if you are worried about your mental health or the mental health of a colleague. Our service provides free and confidential support to dental practitioners and students Australia-wide. If you would like to speak to someone call us 24/7 on 1800 377 700.
If you would like to know a bit more about the service before getting in contact — take a look through accessing support.