Recognizing that stress, compassion fatigue, and demanding workplace environments are impacting the mental and physical health of veterinarians, the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) unveiled its eagerly awaited Global Guidelines on Professional Wellness, following an extensive global survey.
This survey, a pivotal step by WSAVA’s dedicated Professional Wellness Group, reveals a significant portion of the veterinary community—spanning across continents and cultures—is grappling with mental health challenges. Stress and a decline in overall wellbeing were the glaring issues that emerged, not just impacting individual professionals but resonating through entire veterinary teams.
Women, younger veterinarians, and veterinary technicians were identified as the most vulnerable groups. The results underscores the need for a supportive framework and resources tailored to the needs of veterinary professionals.
These guidelines are just one of a series of new and updated peer-reviewed global guidelines created by experts on WSAVA’s committees to highlight best practices and set minimum standards in key areas of veterinary practice.
The WSAVA wellbeing guidelines aim to:
- Support the wellbeing and wellness of individual, team, and association members of the global veterinary community.
- Increase awareness of mental health and its importance within the global veterinary community.
- Identify and assist with the implementation of appropriate remedies and programs to improve mental health in the global veterinary community.
Each chapter of the guidelines includes a checklist of questions as a reminder to individuals or teams to enhance their wellness strategies.
“Numerous studies, including a survey of WSAVA members in 2018, confirm that that the veterinary profession is challenged by problems with staff retention and low morale as a result of factors including burnout, stress and compassion fatigue,” said Dr. Nienke Endenburg, co-chair of the WSAVA’s Professional Wellness Group
In veterinary medicine, various factors can negatively impact well-being, such as environmental and social elements. These include financial worries, disputes with clients at work, a high volume of tasks, and moral dilemmas, all highlighted by the guidelines as key stress sources.
For those in the veterinary field, these guidelines are not just a document; they represent a crucial step towards fostering a healthier, more supportive environment. In recognizing the unique pressures faced by those in veterinary care, WSAVA is leading the charge in advocating for mental wellbeing, providing a roadmap for a brighter, more resilient future for the entire veterinary community.
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