Don't forget us.....Vet Nurses need Wellness and Mental Health Awareness too

In many many mental health statistics the focus is generally on Veterinarians.

However Vet Nurses make up around 43% of the veterinary industry! We are still a highly sought after and essential profession and we do struggle with the stress of working within a vet clinic too. In correlation with Veterinary Nurse & Tech Awareness week, I think it's important for this to be highlighted.

You might have realised as the Vet Nurse that you are, we tend to be empathetic by nature, extremely dedicated and in your workplace you are most likely exposed to stressful situations DAILY.

This is then a slippery slope to potential compassion fatigue. Compassion Fatigue is the struggle to maintain healthy work–life balance. You might feel as though you "lost your spark" or your passion. Working as a Veterinary Nurse means that every day we are trying to improve animals and pet owners lives, even save lives; but sometimes we lose our path and forget to help and look after ourselves. 

Mental illness doesn't discriminate. Even those who appear to be extremely high functioning could be suffering in silence. However I do think it is important not to read too much into it on a TikTok video or a quote on Pinterest. That WILL have you feeling like you are down, and lead you to self diagnosing. It's almost a feeling sorry for myself funk. This is important to avoid. If you feel like you are struggling, go talk to a professional. Please. It will do you far more good than scrolling google for symptoms.

Heres a couple of reasons you might want to think about reaching out for help. Mental illness is not cookie cutter one size fits all ailment. People will be affected differently. Some people will cry, others become withdrawn, unable to focus, unable to eat well or sleep and Even the things that they love most in life, just isn't doing it for them. When the bad days outweigh the good, talk to someone. This does not mean that there is anything wrong with you, but sometimes we just need a little help. 

The veterinary industry IS making great steps towards focusing on personal sustainability with awareness and platforms such a Love Your Pet, Love Your Vet. But just because you are a Vet Nurse and not a Vet, don't think that you are not a priority too. Veterinary Nurses are one of our industry's greatest assets. Creating connections and networks of support is something we can all help each other with.

Here's some pages you should follow to join the community you might find some comfort from. 

Vet Nurses Australia 

The Smiling Vet Nurse

Vet Nurse School

Vet Nurse Chatter

If you or someone you know is suffering please have a conversation with someone you trust or have a chat to your GP. 

So much love, 

Tess 

 Click here to view our "Guide to Self care & Mental Wellness for Veterinary Professionals"

Help Lines

Lifeline Australia - 131 114

Beyond Blue Australia - 1300 224 636

Suicide Callback Service Australia - 1300 659 467