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Suicide Awareness for Veterinary Professionals

Veterinary professionals well-known for being the saviours of our best animal friends also face a much lesser-known problem. Despite their unwavering dedication to an animals health and happiness, they face unique challenges that can contribute to mental health struggles, and unfortunately, suicide rates among veterinarians have been a significant concern, especially in the UK. 

Suicide Rates among Veterinarians in the UK

Veterinarians in the UK are reported to be at a higher risk of suicide compared to the general population. Studies have shown that UK veterinarians are around 3-4 times more likely to die by suicide compared to the general population. This risk is also higher than that of other healthcare professionals.

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and other studies have indicated that approximately one in six veterinarians have considered suicide.

Contributing Factors leading to high risk

  • High Stress Levels: The profession involves significant emotional stress, including dealing with animal suffering, high workload, client demands, and sometimes ethical dilemmas.
  • Access to Lethal Means: Veterinarians have access to lethal drugs, which unfortunately can be used for suicide, making impulsive decisions more fatal.
  • Perfectionism and Compassion Fatigue: Many veterinarians are driven by a strong sense of perfectionism and empathy. This can lead to compassion fatigue and burnout.
  • Financial Pressures: High student debt and relatively lower salaries compared to the level of training can also contribute to financial stress among veterinary professionals.

Addressing the challenges with our support.

Alliance Psychological Services are a leading provider of mental health and wellbeing support. We recognise the challenges of your profession are unique, and so is the need to address mental health within this field. That’s why we’re offering a special online suicide awareness training this September, tailored specifically for those in the veterinary community and coincides with World Suicide Prevention Day on the 10th September 2024.

Suicide Awareness Training for Veterinarians

Dates and Times:

Thursday, 26th September – 10:00am – 11:30am

Friday, 27th September – 1:00pm – 2:30pm

Place: Online 

Cost:
£30 + VAT (per person)
£125 + VAT (company – up to 10 delegates)

Please ensure before booking that you have read our Terms and Conditions

What will be covered?

Increase knowledge and understanding of suicide – Explore the facts and myths surrounding suicide to better understand this critical issue.

Explore attitudes towards suicide – Reflect on your own attitudes and how they might impact your response to someone in distress.

Identify risk factors and warning signs – Learn to recognise the subtle indicators that someone may be at risk.

Build confidence in “asking the question” – Develop the skills to confidently address concerns and open a conversation if you suspect someone is struggling.

Know who to contact for crisis support – Get familiar with the resources available to provide immediate help.

Understand the importance of self-care – Discover strategies to care for your own mental health after supporting others.


Sign up to receive our News and updates

Throughout September, we will be sharing valuable mental health tips, advice and engaging conversations on key mental health topics. Our goal is to provide support and insights that make a difference in your personal life and your workplace.

Let’s work together to create a supportive and informed veterinary community where no one has to struggle in silence.

References:
https://www.vetlife.org.uk/mental-health/depression/

https://www.npr.org/2023/12/19/1220443869/why-suicide-rates-are-high-among-veterinary-professionals

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10421543

https://www.veterinaryworld.org/Vol.16/June-2023/12.pdf

https://www.livingwage.org.uk
https://www.investorsinpeople.com
https://www.nhs.uk

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