| dc.description.abstract | The purpose of this research is to bring awareness to risk factors leading to the increased prevalence and magnitude of mental health issues and well-being in oral health care professionals. Mental health is an essential component of overall health and is dependent upon the complex interplay of emotional, physical, and psychological stress. Health care workers experience high levels of occupational stressors, which has been shown to negatively impact mental health. To make matters worse, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these conditions into potential hazardous working environments for oral health care professionals. The CDC recommends that N95 respirators and eyewear be worn during procedures. As a result, many health care professionals are experiencing severe headaches and ear lobe pain from wearing an N95 respirator as well as protective eyewear. Headaches are another added stressor to health care professionals that may cause a decline in mental health and the quality of care provided. It is important to understand how stressors can affect one's emotional, physical, and psychological well-being, so when stress related ailments begin to surface, practical self-care strategies can be implemented to cope with the stress. Research has demonstrated that stress management techniques such as meditation, journaling, exercise, and therapy are very effective ways to cope with stress. By having these practical self-care strategies in place beforehand, one will be better equipped to cope with those stressors. Above all, it is important to not remain silent when dealing with mental illness. It takes great courage and bravery to recognize one's limitations and ask for help. | en |
