It's not always easy to know when to be concerned about a colleague's well-being. Changes in behavior, mood, or professional performance can have many causes, and it is rarely possible to know exactly what someone is experiencing.
If you are concerned, trust your instincts. Reaching out with compassion and encouraging someone to seek support can make a meaningful difference.
No single sign means someone needs help, but a pattern of changes may suggest it is time to check in.
Examples may include:
Choose a private setting and speak from a place of concern rather than judgment.
It may help to:
Often, simply knowing that someone cares can make it easier to take the next step.
Supporting a colleague does not mean solving every problem yourself. Dentist Health Programs can often provide guidance, resources, and referrals that help individuals access appropriate care while supporting both professional well-being and patient safety.
If you believe a colleague may benefit from additional support, encourage them to contact their state's Dentist Health Program. If you believe there is an immediate risk to the individual, patients, or others, take appropriate action based on the circumstances and applicable policies. You don't have to handle it alone.
NCDHP has provided the American Dental Association's directory of state dental societies to help visitors locate Dentist Health Programs and other well-being resources available in their state.
Information on this page is intended for general educational purposes. Because Dentist Health Programs vary by state, visitors should contact their state program directly with questions about services, eligibility, or confidentiality.
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