Pradakhshana Vijay

Indira Gandhi Govt Dental College, India

From Stress to Strength: Integrating Mental Health into Dental Training

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Biography

Dr. Pradakhshana Vijay is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Oral Pathology at the Indira Gandhi Government Dental College, Jammu. With over eight years of academic and clinical experience, she has previously served as a Senior Resident at King George’s Medical University, Lucknow. She has contributed extensively to the field with more than 70 indexed publications, two textbooks, and three patents. She is an active reviewer for various international journals and currently serves as the Webmaster and office bearer of the Indian Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathologists. Her professional interests include oral cancer diagnostics, digital pathology, and molecular biomarkers. She believes in fostering innovation and mentorship to inspire the next generation of dental professionals.

Abstract

The demanding nature of dental education, characterized by rigorous academic coursework, clinical responsibilities, and constant performance evaluation, places students at heightened risk of stress, anxiety, and burnout. Despite the growing awareness of mental health issues among healthcare professionals, structured integration of mental health into dental education remains limited. The inclusion of mental health training within dental curricula is imperative to promote student well-being, enhance resilience, and cultivate a holistic approach to patient care. Integrating mental health into dental education can be achieved through multi-level strategies. At the curricular level, wellness modules focusing on stress management, mindfulness, coping mechanisms, and emotional intelligence can be embedded into training programs. Establishing mentorship systems, peer-support groups, and access to counselling services ensures that students receive timely guidance and emotional support. Faculty sensitization toward mental health challenges is equally important, fostering a culture of empathy and open dialogue. Furthermore, experiential learning through workshops, reflective practices, and simulated scenarios can equip students with the skills to manage their own psychological well-being and address the mental health needs of patients.

The benefits of integrating mental health into dental education extend beyond reducing stress and burnout. Students trained in mental health awareness demonstrate improved communication, empathy, and patient-centered care—qualities essential for successful dental practice. Long-term, this approach contributes to building a resilient workforce, capable of balancing professional responsibilities with personal well-being. By embedding mental health as a core component of dental education, institutions can transform challenges into opportunities for growth, ensuring that future dental professionals are not only clinically competent but also emotionally balanced and compassionate caregivers.