
A confidential program that involves 11 dentists who act as first line responders refers dentists and their family members to registered psychologists.
Dentists returning to work after treatment for mental health or addiction issues would ideally be supported by a network of mentors, through a process that uses benchmarks drawn from existing successful programs (p1). A life-long support system that could be provided through associations would ensure that a dentist returning to work would not feel alone and can always turn to a “kindred spirit” for help. (p.7)
There is a need for the establishment of student mentors and counsellors combined with a faculty advising system, in addition to student-oriented programmes. Signs and symptoms of stress should be detected early to refer for proper intervention. (p.648)