Wellbeing
Compassion fatigue and depression are true threats to the veterinary profession giving veterinarians the highest suicide rates of any profession. Therefore, it is so important to remember to take care of yourself first, before taking care of others. The resources below will help you care for yourself to you may better care for your patients.
If you are thinking of harming yourself, PLEASE, PAUSE and:
1) Call 911.
2) Call a suicide prevention line (800) 273-8255 or (800) 784-2433.
3) Talk to your friends or family…tell them you need their help.
4) Call a mental health care provider. Give them a chance to help you.
5) Join the AVMA Wellness Community.
Suicide Prevention
National Suicide Prevention Hotline – 800-273-8255
Provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.
Many veterinary professionals are in crisis. NOMV provides the necessary support to all members of veterinary teams and students who are struggling or considering suicide.
Suicide Prevention, Awareness, and Support
Compassion Fatigue Awareness Project
High levels of compassion fatigue can be managed with a number of authentic, sustainable strategies. This site has numerous resources we have found for caregivers working in many professions.
When it is time to find someone in your area. Pick the type of therapy you are looking for, your insurance, and your city or zip code for a list of therapists in your area.
Helpful Websites
Preventing Suicide, Building Resilience Webinar
The Pet Poison Helpline and AVMA Life have teamed up to co-sponsor webinars on a variety of topics pertaining to veterinary wellness. Together, they have brought us the Healthcare Provider Mental Health: Preventing Suicide and Building Resilience topic. Presentation slides also available for download.
The AVMA provides self assessment for quality of life, addresses work-life balance, suicide, compassion fatigue and more…links to discussion of self-care, and training modules for certification.
Mind Matters Initiative Symposium Webinars
The Mind Matters Initiative was launched in 2015 in response to the need to support and better equip those in the veterinary sector who were facing stress related issues, helping to improve the mental health and well-being of veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses, practice managers and students.
These videos were created to encourage veterinary professionals to share their struggles
Wellness and Peer Assistance AVMA
Alcohol Addiction: Effects, Mental Health and Relapse Prevention
Alcohol Effects, Addiction Treatment and Resources
Cyberbullying and Reputation Management
The AVMA provides tools for individuals and practices facing cyberbullying. The log in page for members to access a free helpline is https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/practice-management/reputation/cyberbullying-help-AVMA-members
