{ from the editor } by Douglas Wyckoff, DDS • Editor
You Are Essential
on the TV or go anywhere without being confronted with COVID-19 issues, unrest in the public and a myriad of other issues that are plaguing our society. It has become a heartfelt job to try to refrain from being negative or getting wrapped up in all the craziness of the world. As I look around me and everything that is happening, it is of no wonder to me that depression and anxiety must be on the increase.
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As dentists, we work in a stressful environ- ment. The meticulous procedures we do, personnel issues, financial and family issues, and the day-to-day normal life issues add up. Let us add in the fact that 2020 has been less than relaxed in the issues we have and are dealing with. It is no surprise that everyone has a full plate when it comes to stresses in life. The important part of this is how we deal with and handle these situations to get through the day, week, month and year.
We all have different ways of handling stress. Some use meditation and relaxation to get away from the stress. Others work out avidly and participate in other athletic endeavors to improve not only their physical health but also their mental state. I know of those who use travel and leisure to subside the stresses in their life. Whatever the mode, most can work the stress out so that it does not become a focus of life, but what about those who cannot? What about those around us who have stress overload that causes depres- sion and anxiety? What happens when that overload has increased to a point that taking one’s own life seems to be the answer?
e are living in a unique time right now. Reactions to everything are “extreme” in our world. We cannot turn
I bring this up because in the most recent few days, four people I know have committed suicide. In all four cases, I am told, anxiety and depression were key factors as to why their families think they did it. Was there something that could have been done to pre- vent this from happening? Could something have been said to divert these tragedies from occurring? I am not an expert in this field but know firsthand how empty those who are involved feel after this occurs. Those who are left behind have a void that will never be filled. They have more questions than there are answers.
Awareness is another reason for bringing this up. I am extremely fortunate in the fact that I have not personally dealt with depression or the thoughts of suicide. For that reason, I try extremely hard to not be judgmental toward those who have done this. I con- stantly find myself asking what I could have done to help. We all need to be aware from two standpoints. On the one hand, we need to be aware of all of those around us and look for signs and symptoms that something might be wrong or that there are warnings that something bad might occur. If someone is withdrawing from participating in events, not answering correspondence, seems depressed or does things that just do not add up, do not be afraid to try to offer an ear, shoulder or even a direction for help.
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On the other hand, we need to be aware of ourselves. If you feel that you are slip- ping into a facet of life that is not normal that is affecting your thoughts and actions, seek help. Reach out and talk to someone, whether it be a friend, family member, col- league or anyone that you have access to. If you are slipping into a depressive state, seek medical help. Counseling services as well as medications can help with your journey. The MDA has a Well Being Program that can help in many ways as well.
I am in hope that by bringing this topic up that someone out there might read this who is having a dark time in their life and that they decide to get help now. Life is precious and you have many great things to offer those around you. Let’s all be aware of those around us and be on the lookout for our friends and family who might need some help. Give them your phone number, offer them hope and most of all let them know how important they are—that they are es- sential. f
Contact Dr. Wyckoff at editor@ modental.org or 816-632-2822. Additional resources include the MDA Well Being Program (314-435-1101) and the National Suicide Prevention Hotline (800-273-8255).
