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 What have you noticed?

Headaches, neck aches, running around in circles getting MRIs, and visiting specialist neurosurgeons...

Simple solution: Go for a routine checkup. Trust your dentist and share what’s in your heart and mind. Share all your issues—dentists usually have time to listen if you’ve booked an appointment in a private practice. Build a relationship with them. It could just be a TMJ issue.

Hello! What’s that? MPDS (Myofascial Pain Dysfunction Syndrome)—basically, all that exam stress students face, like the dental student I saw in college who tragically committed suicide. Later, I started this chatbot (available this year) or ChatGPT to be there for your deepest worries, with instructions set in the background. Try it here. Art of Living meditation was conducted in college for other students we attended, to bring some happiness into their lives.

I’ve also set it on my WhatsApp auto-greeting with instructions for cases when patients reach out and we aren’t always there to answer. Technology nowadays helps us keep this running, and we pay monthly to maintain it because “saving a life” is one of the greatest fulfillments.

Sometimes, even lonely adults reach out to talk and share with us. Keep the social network alive. Reach out to loved ones, go to an emergency room, knock on your neighbor’s door, or wake up your family or friends with a call. For preventive measures, reach out to a counselor or mental health practitioner, or seek guidance to connect with one.

Remember: Once those darkest two minutes pass, there’s always the hope of dawn.

Doctors can detect stress in your jaw (clicks or tightness), neck, and life. They may recommend bite-raising appliances, muscle relaxants, or ergonomic adjustments. For example, I noticed that sitting with the right laptop stand in the right position can prevent cervical spondylitis. Always check with your orthopedist, physiotherapist, or other specialists.

Having a trusted doctor at hand—whether for routine checkups, annual GP visits, or specialist consultations—helps. Dental visits are recommended at least annually, so build your network of trust and health.

Check out this ergonomic laptop stand that may help with posture and strain.

Build your self-esteem. Smile.