Your wellness matters.
Dental school is exhausting — mentally and physically. In the midst of rigorous class and clinical schedules, it’s important to set aside time to prioritize your personal wellness. Wellness is not a destination that can be reached and then forgotten. It is a journey that requires continuous effort and adjustments based on life’s demands.
In ASDA, you will find a community, support system & advocate. We aim to:
- Demonstrate the value and impact of community and engagement on member wellness
- Promote the dimensions of wellness and means of addressing each of them as they relate to the dental student experience
- Provide intentional programming that assists members with incorporating wellness into their routines
Make an impact in 5 dimensions.
It’s in your best interest and that of your patients if you are the healthiest version of yourself. ASDA highlights five dimensions that you can focus on to improve and maintain your wellness.
Learn more about how each dimension impacts your wellbeing and discover resources from ASDA members and subject-matter experts here.
Add wellness into your routine.
Wellness Month
ASDA emphasizes wellness throughout the month of September. Details about this year's program coming soon!
Follow @dentalstudents on Instagram so you don’t miss any information about upcoming programs.
Access to Nutritional Resources
Food insecurity is a growing concern in the dental student community. Basic nutrition is often overlooked due to long hours in class or clinic, limited options to work, and the high cost of living.
At the 2026 House of Delegates, the following policy was passed to help address this issue:
“ASDA recognizes that food insecurity is a growing concern among dental students and encourages members and ASDA chapters to work with local constituents and other stakeholders to institute local programs to address this issue.”
ASDA encourages you and/or your ASDA chapter to help your fellow dental students by creating and maintaining a food pantry at your school.
View the five steps to establishing a food pantry.
Access ASDA resources.
You are not alone.
If you’re noticing changes in your personal wellbeing and health due to a decrease in exercise, changed eating habits, increased stress or depression, you are not alone.
There are ways to screen yourself to determine if you're experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition, provided by Mental Health America.
In crisis? If you or someone you know is in crisis now, seek help immediately. Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to reach a 24-hour crisis center or dial 911 for immediate assistance.
Additional Resources
Resources shared in conjunction with ASDA's 5 Dimensions of Wellness and ASDA Wellness Month are for general informational and educational purposes only. They are not medical, mental health, financial, legal or other professional advice, and using them does not create a professional relationship of any kind.
This information may not reflect the most current research or guidelines. Before making decisions about your health, well-being or finances, please talk to a qualified professional or trusted advisor who knows your situation.
ASDA does not endorse any third-party products, services or providers referenced in these resources. You use these materials at your own risk, and ASDA and its officers, directors, employees and volunteers are not responsible for any loss or harm that results.
These resources are for ASDA members only and are not intended for the benefit of, or reliance by, patients or other third parties.