Naomi Humber shares her advice for dental professionals to maintain their mental wellbeing over the busy festive period.
As the end of the year approaches, the run-up to Christmas can feel like a joyful juggling act, with work schedules, family time and social plans all vying for attention.
For dental professionals, this time of year can feel especially full, as practices continue to provide care to patients amidst the
seasonal rush.
Despite all the activity, it is crucial not to forget yourself and your own mental and physical health.
Dr Naomi Humber, head of mental wellbeing for Bupa Health Clinics, offers these simple yet effective strategies to help you stay centred during the festive season:
Connect with others
When time feels scarce, it’s easy to let meaningful connections take a back seat. But investing time with others – whether colleagues, friends or family – can be a powerful way to recharge and gain perspective.
The festive season is also an ideal time to nurture these relationships, which in turn can support your overall wellbeing and happiness.
Here are ways to make connections feel manageable:
- Meet a friend you haven’t seen for a while for a catch-up over coffee or a walk
- Have a lunch break with a colleague, using the time to connect outside of work discussions
- Make use of technology to stay in touch with loved ones who live far away, through video calls or messages.
Stay physically active
Finding time to stay physically active can feel like a challenge in a packed schedule, but even small moments of movement can make a big difference. Exercise isn’t just good for your physical health – it’s also a proven mood booster, thanks to the positive impact it has on your brain chemistry. This enhances your mood, helping to increase overall productivity.
You don’t need hours in the gym to see the benefits. For example:
- Go for a lunchtime jog or brisk walk to clear your mind and re-energise
- Try short strength and flexibility exercises to reduce joint pain and improve posture, which can be particularly beneficial for dental professionals who often hold static positions
- It could even be a dance class, a swim, or even light stretching at home.
Remember, the best exercise is the one you’ll stick with – consistency is more important than intensity.
Give to others
Acts of kindness and generosity can cultivate a sense of purpose and positively influence your mental health. During the festive season, giving to others can also help you feel more connected and engaged with the world around you.
Here are small but meaningful ways to give:
- Say thank you to someone who has supported you this year
- Ask friends or colleagues how they’re doing and take time to really listen
- Spend time with someone who might be feeling lonely or overwhelmed, offering support and companionship
- Offer practical help, like contributing to a team project at work
- Volunteer in your community, whether at a local school, care home or charity.
Stay present
With so much happening in December, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and lose sight of the present. Practising mindfulness – focusing on the here and now – can help you approach your day with greater calm and focus.
Mindfulness doesn’t need to be complicated or time consuming. Start small:
- Take a few minutes to focus on your breathing during the workday
- Savour moments of joy, like drinking your morning coffee or a quiet walk outside
- Engage fully in activities you enjoy, whether that’s decorating your home, wrapping gifts or spending time with loved ones.
Mindfulness helps you approach the festive season with a sense of balance and intentionality, rather than being swept up in external pressures.
December can be demanding, but it’s also an opportunity to realign your priorities and invest in your mental and physical wellbeing. By connecting with others, staying active, practising kindness and being mindful, you can embrace the festive season with greater ease and fulfilment.
As Dr Humber reminds us, the key is to approach this busy period with intention – ensuring that while you’re caring for others, you don’t neglect to care for yourself.
This article is sponsored by Bupa Dental Care.
