Managing Mental Health in and Out of the Dental Op
TIME:
11:00 am (1 hour)
Course Outline & Learning Objectives:
This course is designed to equip dental health care professionals with crucial knowledge and tools to recognize, address, and manage mental health disorders—both in their clients and themselves. Through this course, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the various signs and symptoms of mental health issues, learn actionable strategies for responding to these concerns, and explore the pivotal role dental professionals play in supporting their clients' overall well-being.
Speaker
Harishni Ramesha RDH, HBSc, MEd
Harishni Ramesha is a dedicated Professor and Community Coordinator at a dental hygiene college in Ontario, with over 8 years of experience teaching courses such as Oral Pathology, Microbiology, Introduction to Research, Community I & II, and various clinical disciplines to dental hygiene students. In addition to her role in academia, she provides independent dental hygiene services to enhance community access to care. Harishni also serves on the Board of Directors for the Ontario Dental Hygienists’ Association, where she advocates for the advancement of the dental hygiene profession in Ontario. Driven by a vision to bridge the gap between oral and overall health, Harishni aims to inspire other healthcare professionals to educate clients about the oral-systemic link. As a clinician, educator, entrepreneur, and mother, she understands the mental health challenges faced by those in the dental field. Her mission is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues, fostering a more supportive and inclusive work environment for all.
