Veterinarians often face high levels of stress and difficult workloads, which can have a negative impact on their well-being. Although mental health problems have increased in recent years,In the case of veterinarians we cannot deny the reference that exists: long working hours, dealing with customers, clinic management, complicated cases with patients… it’s all Ingredients to have a strong level of tension“, Explained iago roelIn the statement of Diario Veterinario, PhD in psychology from the University of Santiago de Compostela.
Additionally, MSD Animal Health’s third Veterinary Wellness Study revealed an increase in mental health issues and psychological distress among veterinarians, largely due to the challenges posed by COVID-19 .
To address this problem, Fekawa asked the artificial intelligence, ChatGPT, to see what strategies could help veterinarians improve their well-being. Reactions are:
make self-care a priorityMake self-care a priority by making time for activities that promote physical and mental well-being. This may include regular exercise, getting enough sleep, practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, and engaging in activities that bring pleasure and relaxation.
set limits: Set clear boundaries between work and personal life. It is important to find time for personal pursuits, relationships, and free time. Avoid taking work home with you whenever possible and set realistic expectations for yourself in terms of workload and availability.
Create a delegate and ask for support: Recognize that you can’t do it all on your own. Delegate tasks, such as administrative duties or certain procedures, to qualified team members whenever possible.
Build a Trusted Support NetworkFrom peers, friends or family members who can provide emotional support and assistance when needed.
practice stress management techniquesDevelop healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress. This may include deep breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, journaling, or engaging in activities that help you relax and unwind. Regularly assess your stress levels and take steps to effectively address and manage stress factors.
encourage work-life balanceStrive for a healthy work-life balance by scheduling vacations and regular holidays. Taking breaks from work and taking time off can help prevent fatigue and recharge your energy. Make sure to unplug completely during these periods in order to really freshen up.
get professional help: If you feel overwhelmed or experience persistent symptoms of stress, anxiety, or depression, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. They can provide guidance, tools, and coping strategies tailored to your specific needs.
participate in professional development– Stay engaged and motivated while driving ongoing professional development. This can help you keep up with advances in veterinary medicine, expand your knowledge, and improve your skills. Continuing education, conference attendance, and participation in peer networks can contribute to career growth and job satisfaction.
develop a positive work environment– Foster a positive and supportive work environment by building strong relationships with peers and employees. Encourage open communication, teamwork and collaboration. Celebrate achievements, recognize efforts and provide opportunities for professional development within the veterinary team.
“Memorization, Prioritizing their well-being is critical to long-term success and satisfaction as a veterinarian., By implementing these strategies, you can improve your overall well-being and maintain a healthy work-life balance.”
