CloserStill Media is proud to announce ConfiDental as the headline charity partner for the British Dental Conference & Dentistry Show (BDCDS) 2025. Taking place on 16-17 May 2025 at the NEC Birmingham, the event coincides with Mental Health Awareness Week, making the partnership particularly poignant and timely. 

Supporting mental health in dentistry 

ConfiDental offers a vital lifeline to dental professionals, providing a confidential listening ear and signposting helpline that operates 24/7, 365 days a year. Whether reaching out as a dentist, dental hygienist, dental therapist, dental nurse or dental care student, callers can rely on support from experienced dental professionals who understand the unique challenges faced by those working in the dental field. 

This partnership signifies a new direction for CloserStill, focusing on support for dental professionals  as well as the usual patient-led initiatives. The collaboration aims to shine a spotlight on the mental health crisis impacting dental professionals, providing resources, and encouraging open conversations during the show. 

Recent findings from the Dentistry Census 2024 revealed alarming statistics about the state of mental health within the profession: 

• 91% of dentists report experiencing work-related stress 

• 68% have considered leaving the profession due to the strain 

• 18% of respondents disclosed experiencing suicidal thoughts at some point in their career. 

These figures highlight the critical need for services like ConfiDental and the active role of BDCDS in raising awareness of the mental health crisis in dentistry, as well as ensuring dental professionals have the tools and support they need to manage the challenges. 

Practical tools to tackle stress at BDCDS 

What’s more, ConfiDental will have a significant presence at the BSCDS, with founder and practising dentist, Jeremy Cooper, delivering the engaging session ‘Why is Dentistry Stressful? A Toolkit for Survival’ in the Dental Nurses Forum on Friday 16th May at 13:15pm. This presentation will explore the unique pressures of dentistry, discuss stress management strategies, and provide practical guidance to enhance mental well-being.  

Reflecting on the importance of these issues, Jeremy said: “We are honoured to partner with BDCDS 2025. Our session will address the growing mental health challenges in dentistry, equipping professionals with tools and strategies to navigate these pressures. With challenges becoming increasingly prevalent, we want to ensure no one feels alone.” 

Leanne Brown, Senior Show Manager of CloserStill, added: “We are proud to champion mental health in dentistry through our partnership with ConfiDental. This alliance reflects our commitment to supporting the profession not only through education and networking but also by addressing the challenges that impact practitioners’ wellbeing. Together, we aim to create an environment of understanding, resilience and care.” 

How to access support and resources 

As dental professionals face increasing pressures, the show will provide an ideal platform to raise awareness and direct attendees towards the ConfiDental Helpline (0333 987 5158), a safe and confidential space to share concerns and seek guidance. 

For more information about the British Dental Conference & Dentistry Show, visit birmingham.dentistryshow.co.uk. To learn more about ConfiDental, visit www.ConfiDental -helpline.org/.