The Connection Between Stress in the Dental Profession and Horses
Stress levels in the dental profession are at an all-time high according to research shared by the British Dental Association. While going to the dentist can be a high stress experience for patients, stress can also play a role with dental professionals.
On average dental professionals encounter five to seven significant stress triggers each day. The most common contributing factors are (1) time pressures, (2) patient demands, (3) uncooperative patients (pediatric, fearful, nervous or militant), (4) high levels of concentration and focus, and (5) team issues.
Some dental professionals are affected so deeply that their stress levels negatively interfere with their day-to-day activities and relationships. This can lead to negative side effects that may prove to be harmful. The most prevalent being: burnout, mood disorders (such as depression or anxiety), alcohol abuse and physical health issues such as cardiovascular problems.
Is it possible that being around horses can lead to lower stress and improved job satisfaction?
Working with horses has shown to help decrease stress. This includes feelings of anger, hostility, tension and anxiety. Individuals also tend to become more grounded, centered, confident and secure; while feelings of trust, patience and self-efficacy also increase.
For more information and to see how one dental professional uses horses to help dentists resolve stress and other related factors in their profession, click here.
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