HW-005 - Advancing Access: Supporting Dental Faculty Through Self-Care and Institutional Initiatives - Short Talks

The demanding nature of dental education can take a toll on educators, leading to stress and burnout that impact both personal well-being and professional effectiveness. This session will explore the critical signs and symptoms of burnout, emphasizing the importance of recognizing early indicators. We will discuss self-care as an essential practice, focusing on its role in sustaining resilience and professional fulfillment. Attendees will gain insight into best practices implemented at various institutions to support dental educators, from mentorship programs to wellness initiatives. Join us to engage in meaningful discussions and take actionable steps toward a healthier academic environment.

Introduction: Signs and Symptoms of stress and burnout (5 min)
• Talk 1: Self-care for dental educators - UTHealth (10 min)
• Talk 2: Promoting faculty well-being through supportive initiatives - VCU (10 min)
• Talk 3: Wellness policies and initiatives - TAMU (10 min)
• Talk 4: Mental health and faculty well-being - University of Michigan (10 min)
• Activity: Exercises and self-care tips (10 min)
• Questions/Discussion (5 min) Audience Interaction: Polling and case scenarios will be used to engage the audience, followed by a Q&A and discussion.