World Suicide Prevention Day 2026: The importance of talking
The 10th of September marks World Suicide Prevention Day, a global awareness day dedicated to raising awareness of suicide prevention, reducing stigma, and encouraging open conversations about mental health. It is a reminder that support is available and that talking, listening, and looking out for one another can make a significant difference.
As a training provider working within the dental sector, we work closely with learners, employers, and colleagues across dental practices and we recognise that mental health can affect concentration, confidence, motivation, attendance, and overall wellbeing. By creating a supportive environment, we can help individuals access support early and continue to achieve their goals.
Why Mental Health Awareness matters
Mental health affects all of us. Just as we take care of our physical health, we must also prioritise our mental wellbeing. When people feel safe, supported, and able to speak openly about their challenges, they are more likely to engage positively in learning and work.
For learners, positive wellbeing can support participation, resilience, and achievement. For dental professionals and practices, it can contribute to a more positive working environment, better collaboration, and greater job satisfaction. Creating an inclusive culture where people feel understood and supported helps reduce stress, burnout, and other mental health challenges.
Talking openly about mental health
Talking openly about mental health and suicide prevention can save lives. Honest and compassionate conversations help people understand that mental health difficulties are common and that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Open discussions can:
- Reduce stigma surrounding mental health and suicide.
- Encourage people to seek support before their situation becomes a crisis.
- Help friends, colleagues, and learners recognise warning signs.
- Prevent people from feeling isolated or alone.
- Challenge myths and misconceptions about suicide and mental health.
- Create opportunities for individuals to share how they are feeling and access appropriate support.
- Build a culture where wellbeing is valued and everyone knows where to turn for help.
The impact on the workplace
Mental health challenges can have a significant impact in the workplace, affecting an individual’s ability to cope with day-to-day demands and perform at their best. In dental practices, where professionals balance patient care, clinical responsibilities, and regulatory requirements, these pressures can sometimes feel overwhelming. The effects can also be felt across teams, with increased pressure on colleagues, disruptions to workflows, and potential impacts on patient experience. This highlights the importance of creating a workplace culture where wellbeing is prioritised, support is readily available, and people feel safe to speak up when they need help.
Make a difference
Creating a supportive environment does not always require major changes. Small actions can have a lasting impact.
Managers, colleagues, and practices can:
- Maintain open-door policies.
- Listen actively and without judgement.
- Ask open questions and encourage conversation.
- Signpost individuals to Mental Health First Aiders and support services.
- Promote available wellbeing resources.
- Encourage mental health awareness training.
At Tempdent, Tutor Assessors complete mandatory training through Knovia, helping them support both their own wellbeing and the wellbeing of their learners.
If you’re concerned about someone
If you are worried that someone may be at immediate risk of harming themselves or others, seek urgent help by calling 999. Within Tempdent, concerns should also be escalated through the appropriate safeguarding channels, including contacting a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
Remember that you do not need to have all the answers. Simply listening, showing compassion, and helping someone access support can make a real difference.
Creating a more supportive culture
One of the most powerful things we can do is be present for one another. Noticing changes in behaviour, checking in with colleagues and learners, showing professional curiosity, and creating opportunities for honest conversations can help people feel seen, valued, and supported.
A conversation could change a life. This World Suicide Prevention Day, take the time to check in, listen without judgement, and remind those around you that they don’t have to face challenges alone.