A scoping review of suicide in the dental workforce
Reducing stigma, strengthening surveillance and targeted supports are needed to safeguard dentists' wellbeing
Reducing stigma, strengthening surveillance and implementing targeted supports and interventions are needed to safeguard dentists’ wellbeing, according to a new study
Suicide among healthcare professionals is a growing concern. Despite evidence of high psychological distress in dental practice, suicide among dentists remains underexplored.
The scoping review systematically examined the literature on suicide and suicidal ideation among dentists, including prevalence, risk factors and temporal trends.
Its key points:
- Some studies found that dentists have elevated suicide rates compared to the general population, while others indicate lower or comparable rates.
- Suicide in the dental profession is multifactorial, shaped by occupational stress, access to lethal means and mental health stigma.
- Lowering the suicide rate among dentists requires profession-wide action to reduce stigma, enhance support systems and develop tailored interventions.
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Other resources include:
The Samaritans: National Helpline 116 123
Papyrus Prevention of Young Suicide: National Helpline 0800 068 4141