Learning Objectives: 

• Recognize the impact anxiety, depression and chronic stressors have on wellness
• Appraise the benefits of adhering to healthful living and Lifestyle Medicine 
• Identify methods to help preserve and protect the oral cavity during periods of high stress

Individuals are experiencing bouts of depression, and/or debilitating anxiety at an alarming rate, especially in the young adult and adolescence population. According to the Centers for Disease control 6 out of 10 Americans suffer from at least one chronic illness and 4 out of 10 suffer from two or more.  Stressors, including chronic illnesses and depression, influence good or bad behavior choices each day. Healthful living in a stressed-out world isn’t just an ideal, it can substantially improve quality of life and life span.  Discover how Lifestyle Medicine plays into healthful living and explore innovative strategies to improve oral health during periods of high stress.  Walk away with strategies you and your patients can implement immediately to de-stress, and reduce risks that rob you from quality living.