Figure 3: A negative mindset can affect the visual cortex.Ī negative mindset can also affect attentional control, which is the ability to focus and direct attention. For example, someone in a negative mindset may be more likely to perceive neutral facial expressions as harmful or threatening. In other words, when someone is in a negative mindset, their brain may filter out information that contradicts their negative emotions, which can lead to a distorted perception of reality. A negative attitude can lead to "emotional gating," suppressing sensory information irrelevant to one's emotional state. Research has shown that a negative mindset can affect the visual cortex, the part of the brain that processes visual information. How are the mind and body connected in providing excellent dentistry? It can also help to reduce the stigma and shame associated with mental health challenges, making it easier for us in dentistry to seek help without fear of judgment or discrimination. It can help us recognize when we need support, reach out for help, and take steps to improve our mental health and well-being. Figure 2: Dentists are highly susceptible to mental health struggles.Īcknowledging and accepting difficult emotions is an essential part of healing and recovery. Dentists may also experience unique stressors such as musculoskeletal pain, exposure to infectious diseases, and legal and ethical challenges. The nature of our dental profession, including high practice demands, long working hours, patient expectations, and financial pressures, can contribute to the increased risk of poor mental health among us. Another study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association in 2020 found that 59.5% of dentists reported experiencing burnout symptoms. According to a systematic review published in the Journal of Occupational Health in 2018, the prevalence of common mental disorders among dentists ranged from 7% to 65%, with an average of 31%. Research studies suggest poor mental health, including anxiety, depression, and burnout, is higher among dentists than in the general population. We can no longer ignore the mind-body connection for ourselves, our patients, our team, and our family. Why? Because when it comes to the mind-body connection and our physical ability to provide excellent dentistry, dualism does not exist.
#My health connection how to#
Learning how to safeguard our mental health is as vital as learning clinical dentistry. The Mind / Body ConnectionĪ healthy mind is just as important as a healthy body.
#My health connection full#
Our lives are usually complex and full of challenges, and it is understandable to feel overwhelmed or struggle to cope. For one, it allowed us as a profession to shed light on the stigma of mental health in dentistry. It had so many deleterious effects, yet there were bright spots. No one could have predicted the global shutdown of our profession in 2020. Mental health can and will affect your clinical performance.
Experiencing difficult emotions, such as sadness, anxiety, or stress, is a natural part of the human experience.
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