177. The Role of Empathetic Leadership & Self-Care in Addressing Rising Unhappiness and Depression

Dr. Addison Killeen discusses the rising rates of unhappiness and depression among Americans, including a significant increase in seasonal affective disorder during fall and winter. These trends began before the COVID-19 pandemic and can be attributed to various factors such as technology addiction, economic stress, and political polarization. As dental professionals, we need to emphasize empathy and care. Leaders should prioritize understanding their team members' challenges and well-being, thus fostering stronger team dynamics and improved outcomes. Furthermore, Dr. Killeen encourages leaders to set an example by practicing self-care, including rest, meditation, exercise, and utilizing resources like Talkspace to support employees' mental health.