Our vision is to empower all veterinary team members to advocate and strengthen each other in an optimistic manner through solutions in well being.
For decades, studies have detailed that veterinarians are at risk for depression, psychological distress and burnout.
For decades, studies have detailed that veterinarians are at risk for depression, psychological distress and burnout. Veterinary team members show a progression from idealistic enthusiasm to a gradual loss of energy and commitment. Fatigue, frustration, and mental anguish may lead to feelings of incompetence, helplessness, and hopelessness – and can shorten a career or lead to a toxic environment within your veterinary team. The entire veterinary team is at risk. The Wellbeing Task Force will provide support to veterinary technicians/nurses and team members.
Wellbeing begins with personal wellness. If veterinary team members can’t take care of their own health, they will find it difficult to care for patients and support the team. The Task Force will help create tools that will assist NAVTA members and veterinary professionals in assessing personal wellness, review resources to determine how one can develop a self-care program to improve work-life balance, reduce compassion fatigue, and improve physical health and financial fortitude.
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Physical Wellbeing
Getting enough sleep, eating a well-balanced diet, engaging in adequate exercise that you enjoy, keeping up with regular medical check-ups.
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Mental Wellbeing
Being self-aware of your emotions both while at work and at home. Recognizing when professional help is needed through counseling/coaching. Setting boundaries between yourself and your place of work.
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Professional Wellbeing
Fostering a continued expansion in knowledge and learning. Staying active in your association, connecting with other technicians in the field.
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Veterinary Team Finances & Debt Load
Knowing your worth and advocating for your salary. Being able to live within your means, saving money for future emergencies.
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Harassment & Bullying
Talking to management about uncomfortable situations, reporting harassment when it happens. Recognizing a toxic work environment and being self-aware in not contributing.
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FAQs
How is the Wellbeing Task Force information being disseminated?
I was just curious about how [The NAVTA Wellbeing Task Force Information] is spreading out to the individual practices and reaching team members? This is something I feel (a lot) of my team needs and we have an outside speaker coming to our staff meeting…to discuss.
I personally have been to a lot of meetings on compassion fatigue and burnout, but feel that, “Now what?” is rarely addressed. How do we take care of ourselves? What can we do or need to do and how?
Thank you for inquiring about the NAVTA Wellbeing information. I applaud you for taking the time to ask the questions and provide support for your team. The information on the NAVTA Wellbeing page is geared to help NAVTA members find information and resources about Wellbeing for both themselves and their team members.
As this is a NAVTA initiative, the information will be disseminated through NAVTA channels such as E-newsletter, the NAVTA Journal, social media and of course the website. We have just launched this page and will be continuing to build the resources available to our members.
I am trying to find someone to come and speak to my team about Wellbeing.
I am trying to find a way for someone to come speak with me and my staff about compassion fatigue and burnout. So far we have found one person but it will cost thousands to get them to come to our clinic. Are there any more resources you can share?
Thank you so much for reaching out regarding help with compassion fatigue and burnout for your practice. Please contact the Wellbeing Task Force at info@navta.net and we can forward you resources/suggestions.
How can I find a therapist/counselor?
I do not have medical insurance, or my current insurance does not cover counseling? Do you have any suggestions for finding an affordable counselor/doctor?
Many local counties/states offer discounted free or income-based services. Please search your local department of health’s website. There are also non-profit organizations like Catholic Charities that offer mental health services or support groups like those offered by NAMI – The National Alliance on Mental Illness. Additionally, you can search for Therapists, Psychiatrists, Treatment Centers, and Support Groups using this link: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists
How to find/choose a therapist blog
Disclaimer:
The website does not provide specific psychotherapy advice. The site is intended only for use by consumers in search of general information pertaining to wellbeing and related topics. Content is not intended to replace or serve as substitute for professional consultation or service. Observations and opinions on the website should not be misconstrued as specific advice.
If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.