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Don’t wait until you
SNAP!
Occupational stress among dental practitioners is a growing issue. We look at the causes, concerns and reveal what the DHAA are doing to help By Roisin McGrath
The prevalence of anxiety disorders in Australia
Mental health problems and mental illnesses are very common. In fact, it is estimated that half of all Australians will experience a mental illness during their lifetime, and that one in five adults aged 16-85 years old have had a common mental disorder (i.e. anxiety disorders, mood disorders and substance-use disorders) during the past 12-months (AIHW 2019). Of these common mental illnesses, anxiety disorders are the most prevalent afflicting 14.4% of Australian adults. Having an anxiety disorder is more than feeling a bit stressed or worried. For most people, when a ‘stressor’ is removed the feelings of stress or anxiety will go away. However, for people with anxiety disorders, these feelings do not pass and often come on without any apparent cause (Beyond Blue). Despite the fact that effective support services and treatments are available, the majority of people living with an anxiety disorder are not getting any professional help.
One of the major barriers to people accessing mental health care is the continued stigma associated with being ‘labelled’ as having a mental illness. I’m sure you’ll all agree that it’s time that we were able to talk openly and honestly about the causes and consequences of mental illness, to create an environment where those experiencing anxiety disorders are more likely to seek early support and care.
Is stress and anxiety a problem in our profession?
Stressful life experiences increase the risk of developing an anxiety disorder or can make an existing anxiety disorder worse (SANE Australia). Evidence suggests that occupational stress is prevalent among dental hygienists and is an important cause of burnout and attrition from the profession (Sanders & Turcott 2010,
Practitioner Group (%) n Dental Hygienist
1.96%
n Dental Therapist n Oral Health Therapist n Other
41.18% 54.9% 1.96%
