Often at the start of a new year, people pause and reflect. It is a time to reassess and realign. Stopping and considering how your mental health faired in the year passed is a good practice. There have been additional, uncontrollable stressors in the past few years. This may have pushed you into unfamiliar territory with your mental health.
The veterinary industry specifically has been under new stressors.
Pet ownership has soared.
Veterinarian and veterinary nurse numbers have reduced.
Workloads are higher.
We have all felt it.
Have certain situations such as longer, more stressful working hours, social isolation or illness pushed you into conditions of poor mental health? Identifying triggers can assist in future management.
Similarly, what has helped to improve your mental health?
Regular exercise, improved diet, awareness of better sleep habits, conscious time spent with family or friends, time in nature, meditation, reduced work hours?
In some instances, professional assistance is required and is crucial.
It is so important that we put the spotlight on positive mental health and encourage dialogue, support and awareness. The veterinary industry is to be celebrated for so many achievements, but we also need to look after each other. It can at times haunt us and it can be tough.
As the new year rolls on, perhaps we should plan for how best to manage our mental health in the year ahead.
Prioritise it.
Establish boundaries.
Schedule self-care.
Talk to each other more.
We must get this right.