{ from the editor } by Douglas Wyckoff, DDS


Fatigue, Stress and Burnout In the Office


also realize it carries risks we cannot ignore. We all deal with full schedules, staffing shortages, human resource matters, family responsibilities and the normal day-to-day pressures of practice. Together, this can lead a practitioner toward burnout, mental health issues and, honestly, a real reduction in quality of personal life. Stress such as this can cause physical symptoms such as fatigue and depression, as well as withdrawal from social interaction, detachment, cynicism, reduced work performance, increased absenteeism and neglect of our duties as dentists.


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It doesn’t matter our age or season of life—be it dental student or long-time practitioner—this situation can, and does, have the poten- tial to affect each of us. Studies show that approximately 84 percent of dentists report suffering from burnout, which is up 23 percent from 2022. That not only affects us personally, but also can compro- mise patient care in several ways, including misdiagnoses, improper treatment and a decrease in the quality of treatment.


The pace of the practice schedule plays a significant role in increas- ing stress in the dental workplace. We put ourselves in a position of trying to achieve excellence, dealing with patient anxiety, putting in long hours each day and always trying to meet the demands of our family, staff and patients. Not one of us, including our team members, is immune from these pressures.


It is imperative that we are always fully aware of our mental and physical states. Taking care of “No. 1” means paying attention to both mental and physical health. It is so easy to get wrapped up in the daily grind that we often forget to take responsibility for our own health. Maybe you are fortunate enough to not have these issues, and I hope most of you don’t. In that case, I would also say that it is so impor- tant that we look out for each other and be cognizant of what those around us are going through. This includes our family, colleagues and staff members we engage with on a daily or weekly basis.


Signs we should be aware of include irritability, detachment from relationships, reduced productivity, fatigue, cynicism, depression and a multitude of health issues, including high blood pressure, diabetes and malnourishment. If you see any of these symptoms in yourself or anyone around you, make sure to address the issue. We are so


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e are blessed to work in one of the most personally rewarding professions, not only in healthcare, but among all careers. I believe being able to practice dentistry is a gift, but I


fortunate to have MDA and ADA Well Being programs and resources that can and will assist those in need. Recognizing the problem and accepting that it is OK to seek help is pivotal. However, some may shy away from that initially. While I highly recommend getting profes- sional help, if for some reason you don’t, the following suggestions might help steer you in the right direction:


• Make time for yourself, not only at the practice but at home. • Communicate openly and honestly with everyone around you. Voice your concerns and needs.


• Engage with your family, colleagues and especially your friends. • Get ample sleep. • Make sure your office schedule allows you to do the tasks you like to do in a time frame that reduces stress.


• Take time for personal freedom, including travel or other interests that help you relax.


• Create a spiritual life that brings relaxation and a sense of peace for you.


Burnout and stress in the dental setting are created by many factors, including our own individual habits, workforce issues and workplace conditions. We, as members of the MDA, have one of the best re- sources out there to help deal with this, and that is each other. I truly mean this. The relationships we make become solid support networks that cannot be replaced by anything else. That is a huge member- ship value you can’t put a dollar sign on. If you or a friend needs help, contact the MDA or ADA without hesitation.


Contact Dr. Wyckoff at editor@modental.org.


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