Burnout is REAL! Prioritizing Self-Care and Support for a Healthier Work-Life Balance
Being in dentistry for as long as some have been, we feel the stress of day-to-day patient/employee care. As an office manager, you may hear the other team members say they are “burnt out”!
Is that really a thing?
Well, it is true, you get tired, they get tired.
Burnout is REAL!
It is essential to address the topic of burnout and its effects at every level of a dental practice, from the Doctor to the Front Desk. Burnout is a work-related stress that causes physical and emotional exhaustion.
Although not classified as a medical condition, burnout can lead to many physical and emotional issues. Understanding its causes and how to avoid them is essential to prevent burnout.
Dentists and dental office personnel are particularly susceptible to burnout due to the nature of their work. Those passionate about their work are less likely to experience burnout, and dental professionals have undergone extensive education and training to provide quality care.
However, it is still essential to take steps to prevent burnout. We have all been short-staffed since COVID and find more and more team members calling in sick. Your body could tell you to slow down or take a break.
Let’s talk about ways to reduce burnout from work.
Prioritize Self-Care
Most importantly, prioritize your self-care. It is essential to take care of yourself. Eating a healthy diet, exercising, practicing meditation, and getting enough sleep are also important.
You may need to start by setting boundaries between work and personal life. Taking breaks during the day is an excellent way to get up, stretch, and take a few deep breaths. A simple walk around the office building might do the trick.
Disconnecting from work once you are home is priceless. Maybe stopping at the gym or the grocery store to calm down before going home is the answer.
Learn More Ways to Avoid Burnout
Build Your Support System
Remember, you’re not alone in this. Outside the office, lean on your friends and build a support team of like-minded individuals who can provide emotional support and encouragement. But it might be time to seek professional help if you’re feeling burnt out.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health provider. They have the expertise to help us manage stress and teach us valuable relaxation techniques.
Yoga and running have been my personal stress relievers, but find what works best for you.
What Inspires You?
Identify what inspires you about your current position. Using that passion can help you focus on getting the job done proficiently and allow you to take time away from the office.
Make a schedule for yourself that flows with your needs for the day. Try to gain control over your responsibilities at the office.
Remind yourself that that pile might still be there tomorrow, and that is okay!
Give Your Mind and Body a Break
Your mind and body need a break from the office. Take that vacation you have been putting off!
Don’t be afraid to take time off! You deserve to take time for yourself. You NEED to take time for yourself. If you do not, your body will take the time it needs when IT needs it.
Dental professionals can avoid burnout if they take the time to maintain a healthy work-life balance. That will look different for each of us. But do what is best for you. Create a good network, communicate when needed, and you can help others avoid burnout.
About the Author
Lisa Lash, DAADOM
Lisa Lash is a Practice Manager with Associates in Family Dentistry. She has been with the office for a little over 19 years and in dentistry for a total of 26 years.
In 2018, Lisa became a Fellow of the American Association of Dental Office Managers. In 2023, she received her MAADOM and her DAADOM in 2024.
Lisa likes traveling each year to the AADOM Conventions to see her “tribe” of wonderful members she has met. She is in love with dentistry and every avenue it has to offer.
