How to Combat Stress and Depression in the Veterinary Medicine Community

One of the most common mental health illnesses around the world is depression. Studies have not found its true cause, but research suggests that it stems from various factors. This includes physiology, genes, environment, and biology.

Depression affects a lot of people, and the veterinary community is not an exception.

Stress and Depression in the Veterinary Community

NAVTA 2016 Demographics Survey discovered burnout is one of the top struggles veterinary technicians face. Often, people who work in the field face stress and feel overwhelmed. Many factors cause this, including:

  • Having no time to rest
  • Skipping meals
  • Very sick pets and upset owners
  • Little to no appreciation from owners, colleagues, and loved ones

Because of these factors, feelings of burnout and depression are often set aside. Moreover, such feelings are frequently downplayed and normalized because of the nature of a veterinarian’s work.

Remember that having a stressful job does not mean you should feel constantly lost, unhappy, or anxious. However, keep in mind that it’s also important to recognize the signs of depression, including:

  • Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness
  • Constant sadness
  • Lack of energy
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Feeling like a burden to others

Self-Help Tips to Cope with Veterinarian Depression

If you’re struggling with burnout or depression, there are a lot of resources you can use to cope. You shouldn’t ignore how you’re feeling.

Recognizing the signs of depression is the first step. Just keep in mind that treating depression requires professional help. However, there are ways to cope if you’re not ready to take that step yet.

1. Reach out to other people.

Depression comes with the feeling of being a burden, and it comes with a tendency to self-isolate. Remember that reaching out to friends and loved ones is not a sign of weakness.

Stay in touch with people. Continue doing things you love, and don’t feel afraid to try new things.

2. Try working out.

Working out has been proven to help fight depression. If you’re new to it, working out for at least 10 to 30 minutes is a good start. It doesn’t matter what kind of exercise you do as long as you get your heart rate up! You can try walking, yoga, swimming, dancing, or even just cleaning your home.

3. Make a sleep schedule.

Getting a good night’s sleep helps with depression. Additionally, changing the environment where you sleep can help you “disconnect.”

An important tip is to try and avoid stimulation (such as using your cell phone or watching TV) an hour before bedtime.

4. Sunlight helps.

Whether you choose to do some yoga on the terrace or take a walk with your pet, getting adequate sunlight is also essential to fighting depression.

5. Prioritize nutrition.

Nutrition has a significant role when it comes to battling depression. With this, try to consume less alcohol and caffeine. Making sure you eat meals and grabbing a snack every 3 to 4 hours is another important step as well. 

Additionally, minimizing sugar consumption can help you maintain better energy levels throughout the day. Healthy food habits prevent you from experiencing insulin crashes, which can cause irritability and mood swings.

You’re Not Alone

Depression does not choose whom it will affect. For veterinary professionals and workers, reaching out for help is necessary. Veterinarian depression is real, and the first step relies on acknowledging it. We hope this article gave you some valuable tips on how to improve your mental well-being.

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