In our October 2018 Newsletter, The Meowing Vet highlights the key points from our September articles for pet owners to keep in mind. Scroll down for a sneak-peek of our upcoming blog topics for October!
What Your Veterinarian Needs You to Know about Compassion Fatigue and Suicide in the Veterinary Profession
September 10, 2018
- 1 in 6 U.S. veterinarians has considered suicide, and veterinarians have the highest suicide rate of any civilian profession in the U.S.
- Statistical findings run similar in several other countries with veterinary suicide mortality rate being 4-6X higher than that of the general population.
- A large proportion of veterinary professionals, including veterinarians (general practitioners and specialists), veterinary technicians and nurses, and veterinary students may suffer from depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
- The problems affecting the mental and emotional well-being of the veterinary community are various and complex, yet many agree that compassion fatigue is an issue. Compassion fatigue, a.k.a. emotional exhaustion or secondary traumatic stress disorder, is the result of emotional depletion of caregivers, including those working in the veterinary industry.
- Fortunately, compassion fatigue is preventable. Self-care practices and professional therapy are among several methods of combating the effects of compassion fatigue. Veterinary members are encouraged to seek help if struggling with mental or emotional distress; these conditions are not a sign of weakness, and hope can be found.
If you are contemplating suicide, confide in a close friend or family member, seek professional help, and call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (available 24/7). For hotlines in other countries, please visit http://www.suicide.org/international-suicide-hotlines.html.
Preview of The Meowing Vet’s upcoming article topics for the month of October: (topics or order subject to change)
- October 5: Separation Anxiety
For more information, visit www.themeowingvet.com. And Don’t forget to subscribe to our e-mail notification list to keep receiving these newsletters.
xoxo
Maranda Elswick, DVM
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