Improving Mental Health and Wellness in Veterinary Medicine (Unburdened)

Veterinarian deaths by suicide occur at rates far above the national average, and suicidal ideation has been reported as being up to 5.5 times more likely in veterinarians compared to the general population. Between 1/3 and 2/3 report history of depression, and 80% describe their occupation as stressful or very stressful.
Our team has identified specific types of client interactions that predict veterinarian stress and burnout, with veterinarian reaction to these interactions being a more important predictor of negative outcomes than frequency of such interactions alone. We have developed an Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT)-based educational program tailored to reduce reactivity during these veterinarian-client interactions. We plan to implement our program in veterinary clinics throughout our community, assessing program feasibility and acceptability, and monitoring use of techniques taught. Formal measures of burden transfer, stress, burnout, and mental health stigma are being measured using an online survey format at baseline (prior to ACT training) and follow-up (upon completion and 1 month later). Individuals wishing to contribute to research are randomized to either participate in the program upon registration (“program”) or after data collection (control”). Data will be analyzed by comparing baseline data to follow-up, as well as program versus control conditions. Using feedback from program participants and community stakeholders, we will alter the program as needed and develop an asynchronous training module for broad dissemination through veterinary learning management systems to make this program sustainable beyond the funding period.
Website:
clinicalschola...
Twitter:
/ cspfellows
Resources:
www.unburdened...

[@michelleabel-shoup6296]

This is very important work for those in the veterinarian field who experience stress and depression at such high rates. Thank you for helping to address and reduce the mental health stigma, stress, and burnout associated with this work through your evidence-based ACT program. Your plan to offer an e-learning version for broader dissemination is vital to the sustainability and scalability of your project. Will the asynchronous model provide opportunities for participant feedback through an online survey (pre and post) as well?

[@melissagreen8458]

Until recently, I was unaware of the high rates of suicide among veterinarians. Provider stress and burnout is gaining more attention and we need effective prevention interventions. Thanks for your work in this area. Please share relevant publications. As this model is examined and expanded, might there be applications to other provider disciplines?