A journey of hope: Overcoming addictions in the dental workplace
Tune in to the Dental Check-up podcast to listen to the compelling concluding episode of the mental health series, as it delves into the transformative addiction and recovery journey of a dental hygienist.
Substance abuse is a prevalent issue affecting various healthcare professionals, including dentists and dental teams. The nature of their work exposes dental professionals to unique stressors such as high job demands, stress, burnout and access to prescription drugs, which can contribute to substance abuse. Recent research indicates that approximately one in ten individuals within the dental profession may be susceptible to substance abuse.1
From Darkness to Light: A Dental Hygienist's Journey of Addiction, Hope, and Recovery
In the fascinating finale episode of the mental health series, join host Tim Newton as he engages in a heartfelt conversation with Sarah Thomson, a resilient dental hygienist who won the battle against alcoholism. Sarah's unwavering perseverance shines through as she fearlessly opens up about her personal journey with addiction, hoping to inspire and motivate those facing similar challenges.
“Most of us within the dental profession are perfectionists. We are also caring for patients, and sometimes we neglect ourselves,” says Sarah Thomson. “I believe that I was putting on a front and pretending to be okay, when in fact I was going through emotional trauma. It was certainly an adjunct to everything else going on in my life and the perfectionism that we all have in our job.”
The second segment of the episode features Richard Jones, Deputy Director from NHS Practitioner Health Service in the UK. Tim and Richard discuss the many challenges and fears practitioners often face when seeking help for substance abuse issues. They also shed light on the crucial role of regulatory bodies in the UK and how these services guide practitioners by providing a clearer understanding of the support available.
Listen to the full episode to learn about the profound issue of substance abuse within the dental workplace. Discover how perseverance and appropriate support systems can offer a pathway to recovery.
The second segment of the episode features Richard Jones, Deputy Director from NHS Practitioner Health Service in the UK. Tim and Richard discuss the many challenges and fears practitioners often face when seeking help for substance abuse issues. They also shed light on the crucial role of regulatory bodies in the UK and how these services guide practitioners by providing a clearer understanding of the support available.
Listen to the full episode to learn about the profound issue of substance abuse within the dental workplace. Discover how perseverance and appropriate support systems can offer a pathway to recovery.
1 Marnewick JC, van Zyl AW. Substance abuse among oral healthcare workers. SADJ. 2014 May;69(4):148-51. PMID: 24984387.