Pediatric Dentist Wins Prestigious Gies Award for Advocacy on Mental Health and Suicide

Lindsey Robinson, DDS, a pediatric dentist in Grass Valley, California, recently received the William J. Gies Editorial Award for her editorial “The Pandemic Inside of Us,” published in the Journal of the California Dental Association. This prestigious award, presented annually by the American Association of Dental Editors and Journalists in collaboration with the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) Gies Foundation, recognizes outstanding contributions to dental journalism. Robinson’s piece addresses a critical issue that has long been taboo in the dental profession: the mental health struggles and suicide risks faced by dentists.

Robinson’s editorial was inspired by a heartbreaking event in 2014 when a promising young leader in the dental community died by suicide. At the time, the deceased was the immediate past president of the American Dental Student Association and about to graduate from Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. Robinson’s editorial opens with this tragedy, bringing to light the immense pressures dentists endure, often in silence, despite outward appearances of success.

Dentistry is widely regarded as one of the most stressful professions, ranking just behind physicians in terms of suicide risk, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. This stress is exacerbated by factors unique to the field, including the high-stakes environment of treating patients who are often anxious or reluctant, as well as the isolating nature of the work. Robinson’s editorial delves into these issues, citing research on burnout, anxiety, and depression among dentists, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The pandemic intensified existing mental health challenges for healthcare professionals, as exemplified by the tragic case of Lorna Breen, MD, an emergency room physician who died by suicide in 2020. Robinson draws parallels between Breen’s story and the dental community’s struggles, highlighting the urgent need for better mental health resources, peer support, and de-stigmatization of mental illness in dentistry. Robinson’s editorial emphasizes that, while dentists are trained to care for others, they must also have access to care themselves.

The editorial also touches on the increased risk of suicide among younger dentists. According to a recent American Dental Association survey, dentists younger than 40 report higher levels of anxiety and depression, with many unaware of existing wellness resources. Robinson argues that organized dentistry must prioritize mental health initiatives to protect its members. She applauds efforts like the American Dental Student Association’s wellness initiative, launched in response to the 2014 tragedy, which provides resources to help dental students cope with the stresses of their rigorous training.

As Robinson eloquently reminds her peers, mental health is as crucial to a successful dental practice as clinical skills. Her work serves as a beacon, encouraging dentists to seek support and to watch for signs of distress in themselves and their colleagues.

Given by ADEA to recognize individuals, institutions, and public/private partners for their work in dental education and oral health, the Gies Awards are named after William J. Gies, PhD, a dental education pioneer. Click here to read more.