The South Dakota Dental Association continues to support wellbeing in multiple ways.  In partnering with Mary Wolf, dental offices have hired Mary to present on:

• Wellbeing Strategies and Discussion
• Building a Culture of Wellbeing
• Updates from the SDDA’s “Be Well” Program
• Overview of the free and confidential assessments offered by the association. The assessments help to sort out complex situations, determine next steps, and offer recommendations and referrals.

By meeting Mary at a Wellness Workshop, staff feel more trust in reaching out for assistance and know the process if they need help.  A typical workshop lasts an hour and costs approximately $300.  Depending on office location there could be an added charge for travel. Please reach out to Mary if you are interested in hiring her to present at your clinic.

Here is one clinic’s experience:
“Our goal in bringing Mary Wolf into our office to have the staff meet her face to face was to introduce them to the wellness initiative that the South Dakota Dental Association has taken on. We wanted them to have a face associated with the name that they have been given as a resource. Our goals were met 100 percent! Mary's presentation introduced some broad concepts of wellness and mental health, as well as gave us tactical, practical advice to make each day a little better. It was an hour very well spent. Our team members are our practices greatest assets, investing this one hour on their wellness and mental health was a privilege and an honor to provide them.” 
Dr. Jaclyn Schuler and Dr. Samantha Kappenman – Dakota Dental

Take a Time-Out: Practice yoga, listen to music, meditate, get a massage, or learn relaxation techniques. Stepping back from the problem helps clear your head.

Eat Well-balanced Meals: Do not skip meals. Keep healthful, energy-boosting snacks on hand.

Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: They can aggravate anxiety and trigger panic attacks.

Get Enough Sleep: When stressed, your body needs additional sleep and rest.

Exercise Daily: This helps you feel good and maintains your health.

Take Deep Breaths: Inhale and exhale slowly. Take a break and focus on breathing for 5 minutes.

Count to 10 Slowly: Repeat, count to 20 if necessary.

Do Your Best: Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on excellence and doing your best work.

Accept that you cannot Control Everything: Put stress in perspective, what can you influence instead.

Welcome Humor: A good laugh goes a long way.

Maintain a Positive Attitude: Focus on what went well in your day instead of the negative events.

Get Involved: Volunteer or find another way to be active in your community, which creates a support network and gives you a break from everyday stress.

Learn what Triggers Anxiety: Is it work, family, or something else you can identify? Write in a journal when you're feeling stressed or anxious, and look for a pattern.

Talk to Someone: Tell friends and family you're feeling overwhelmed, and let them know how they can help you. Talk to a physician or therapist for help.

*From the Anxiety and Depression Association of America

McKinsey and Company offers an excellent collection of articles on wellbeing in the work place, including insights on topics like burnout and mental health. Please take at look at these great resources: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/well-being-in-the-workplace

ADA Resources for Health and Wellness