Thoughts About The New NC Dental Board Requirement On Mental Health & Substance Abuse Effective January, 2023

Here are a few of our ideas for continuing education requirements related to mental health and substance abuse:

1. Understanding and addressing trauma: Many people who struggle with substance abuse and mental health issues have experienced trauma, whether it be physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, or exposure to violence or natural disasters. Continuing education courses could focus on how to recognize and address the effects of trauma on mental health and substance use, as well as trauma-informed approaches to treatment.
2. Substance abuse and addiction: Continuing education courses could cover the latest research on substance abuse and addiction, including risk factors, prevention strategies, and evidence-based treatment approaches.
3. Mental health disorders: Continuing education courses could delve into the various mental health disorders that can contribute to substance abuse, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. These courses could cover the latest research on these disorders, including their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
4. Cultural competency: Substance abuse and mental health treatment often intersect with issues of race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation. Continuing education courses could focus on how to provide culturally sensitive and competent care to diverse populations.
5. Self-care: Providing care to others can be emotionally and mentally demanding, so continuing education courses could focus on self-care strategies for professionals working in the substance abuse and mental health fields. These could include stress management techniques, mindfulness practices, and strategies for maintaining work-life balance.