In honour of Healthy Workplace Month (October), the Canadian Dental Association (CDA) has partnered with Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) to promote CDA’s The Working Mind: Workplace Mental Health & Wellness for Oral Health Care Professionals course. Available in-person or online, the program aims to encourage Canadian dental professionals to prioritize their mental well-being while providing top-notch care to their patients.

“This course provides a safe space for oral health professionals to observe the importance of maintaining positive mental health in the workplace,” says Dr. Heather Carr, CDA President. “We hope to empower the entire dental team to prioritize their well-being, foster a supportive atmosphere, and, ultimately, improve the care they receive.”

The course consists of three modules for teams, along with an additional module designed specifically for managers to provide them with the tools needed to lead their teams towards a healthier work environment.

Creating a dental work environment that is inclusive and where individuals can open up freely about their mental health concerns without fear of being judged is essential to promoting better health, as well as fostering understanding and compassion in the workplace, CDA says.

“This course allows oral health colleagues and managers to learn to recognize the subtle signs of mental health issues,” says Geoff Valentine, Manager of Programs and Services at CDA. “Our goal is to help create workplaces where all employees not only feel supported in their well-being, but are also encouraged to seek help for any mental health issues they may be experiencing.”

“This personalized, evidence-based training program helps reduce mental health stigma,” adds Shane Silver, Vice-President of Social Enterprise & Opening Minds at MHCC. “It creates an environment where people come first and makes them feel comfortable engaging in discussions and asking for help. The result is a healthier workplace, which leads to better health for the Canadian workforce.”

For more information on The Working Mind: Workplace Mental Health & Wellness for Oral Health Care Professionals, click here.