By Brandon Hess, CVPM, CCFP
After graduating with my degree in Psychology, and jumping feet first into veterinary medicine, I made a promise to my parents that I would use my degree at some point in the future; and here we are. For the last 3 years I have been hyper focused on many aspects of veterinary wellness: Compassion Fatigue, Burnout, Work-Life Balance, Workplace Culture and Suicide Awareness. My approach is practical and applicable. I am no Psychologist, and I never expect any of my students to leave my class to be one.
After speaking to thousands of professionals on this topic, here are some key lessons I’ve taken away:
1. We want to talk about these things, but don’t know how: One of my favorite aspects of teaching, is seeing students have “aaha moments” in classes. Watching my students be vulnerable with their feelings, as a result of my vulnerability, is so rewarding. The best way to talk about these topics, is to not be afraid to talk about these topics. It’s emotional, and even uncomfortable at times, but others feel more comfortable when those around them talk. I refer to this as “normalization”; making it normal to talk about these topics by talking about it more often.
2. Some people in need want help, but don’t know where to go: A big part of my Veterinary Professional Wellness workshops is providing resources to attendees. I never want someone to leave my class not knowing where they can go if help is needed. A few options are:
- Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
- Crisis Texting Hotline
- Many health insurances cover therapy sessions
- AAHA and AVMA have wellness initiatives and resources
- MightyVet: A new, non-profit that supports all veterinary professionals with mentorship and education. Follow them on Facebook (along with VetSupport) to find out more about them.
3. Being around peers that experience the same things we do makes what we feel, seem a little more normal: Experiencing the emotional (and sometimes physical) effects of our work is hard. It’s even harder to find time to deal with it instead of compartmentalizing. When we are surrounded by others who experience the same thing, it makes it more about the industry and not ourselves.
4. We underestimate the value of connection: Harvard did a 75 year study that showed the importance of connection and a fulfilling life. After a long day, or week at work, the last thing many of us want to do is go out and “people”. Have you ever forced yourself to go to an event you really didn’t want to, and you ended up having fun? That’s what you should do! I’m not saying don’t take time for yourself, but don’t avoid others due to emotional/mental exhaustion. That connection is exactly what you need.
5. We are a reactive industry: I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard people say they didn’t, or almost didn’t go to my classes because Compassion Fatigue is not a problem at their practice. Or, even worse, suicide is not a problem at their practice. This is a reactive mindset. Speaking from experience you do not want to wait for something to happen to put education and structure in place.
Even if you don’t feel the emotional and mental impact of this industry don’t impede others from getting help? I come across owners all over the United States that don’t believe in these topics. They have the “suck it up buttercup” mindset. Even if they don’t realize it, they are increasing the stigma of these topics and preventing people in need from asking for help.