Vetlife launches new resource for veterinary professionals experiencing anxiety

Vetlife launches new resource for veterinary professionals experiencing anxiety

To mark Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs from May 15-21, Vetlife has launched a new resource on the topic of anxiety.

Vetlife supports the veterinary community through three support services: Helpline, Health Support and Financial support.

2022 was a busy year for Vetlife, with all three services experiencing an increase in demand. Vetlife provides a 24/7 confidential Helpline which is open to all members of the veterinary community including vet nurses, students, and practice staff. The Helpline received 3,503 contacts in 2022, up 3.3% from the 2021 total of 3,390.

The theme for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week is anxiety, which is an issue affecting many in the veterinary community.

A veterinary career can bring with it many stressors, including long work hours, dealing with physical and emotional distress from both patients and clients, and performance anxiety. There are various ways in which anxiety can impact veterinary mental health, and it’s important to know that help is available.

Vetlife trustee Kirstie Pickles said: “Contacts received by Vetlife services are completely confidential, but we know that many people are experiencing anxiety and there are many more in the profession who find it difficult to reach out for support. Recognising and admitting that you are experiencing anxiety is the first step in effectively managing it.”

To help inform the veterinary community about anxiety and how it can be approached, Vetlife has launched a free downloadable resource which is available on its website. The resource aims to encourage those who are experiencing anxiety to open up if they are struggling and gives advice on how it can be combatted.

If you need to talk or are worried about someone, please call or share information about Vetlife Helpline. Vetlife Helpline is available 24 hours a day every day for confidential support on 0303 040 2551 or email via www.vetlife.org.uk