This has been an incredibly challenging year as many of us attempt to find our footing in our new normal. These challenges have been acutely felt in the veterinary community and have left many veterinary professionals feeling burnt out, overworked, and uninspired. The sad truth is the veterinary field has a high burnout and turnover rate, as well as suicides, even outside of 2020.
Studies consistently show veterinary professionals are at an increased risk of suicide, suicide ideation and depression. Recent data indicates veterinary technicians are 2.3 to 5 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population.1That's a pretty staggering number. Burnout and compassion fatigue are common and real conditions within the veterinary community. The long hours and generally low pay often leave veterinary nurses feeling as if any move will be a lateral one, with no room for advancement.
Writing your own narrative
A global pandemic, curbside medicine, and veterinary professionals struggling to keep themselves and staff safe has only exacerbated the mental health crisis within the veterinary community and reduced overall workload efficiency.2 Chronic exhaustion and mental illness leave little room for creativity on breaking the cycle and combating the burnout state. However, there are many avenues for veterinary nurses to advance their careers, cultivate a more sustainable work-life balance, and break away from the mold and limitations that our profession has created for itself. This is possible even amidst a pandemic.
The veterinary culture is resilient in the face of adversity. We are seasoned and capable in our abilities to pivot when at the bottom. A creative and entrepreneurial mind, along with determined and skilled passion, are ultimate driving forces behind all innovations and advancements in our veterinary careers.
