Mental Wellness: Managing Stress
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May 12, 2023
May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, providing an opportunity to prioritize your well-being. Your mental health is affected by many different elements of life. Some are out of your control, such as genetics, but stress, which can negatively impact your mental health, can be mitigated. Veterinary medicine comes with stress both mentally and physically, and it is important to familiarize yourself with the best tools and resources in order to reduce the impact on your mental health.
Take care of your body
Physical self-care is essential. Experts suggest exercise regularly, maintain a balanced diet, and ensure that you are getting adequate sleep each night. Walking is a great way to get your body moving and it has excellent health benefits. Swap out healthy snacks for reduced calorie and healthier options and be sure to stay hydrated. In this research study, lack of sleep has been linked to depression, which emphasizes the importance to prioritizing rest.
Practice gratitude
Studies show that gratitude is linked to happiness. Dedicate a moment to jot down what you're grateful for, either in a journal or on your phone. This simple act, repeated over time, can bring joy and perspective to your life.
Have something to look forward to
Having something to anticipate outside of your normal routine can provide a much-needed boost during challenging times. Whether it's a small pleasure like cooking with friends, or an exciting event, such as a trip, having a future enjoyment helps maintain resilience.
Seek help when you need it
You aren’t in this alone, even though it might feel like it at times. Finding the support or care you need is a sign of strength. Sometimes professional support is necessary. Reach out to mental health professionals who can provide the guidance you need. If you are a VetCor team member please refer to our Employee Assistance Program for tools and resources to support your mental health, more details can be found in your Benefits Guide.
Additional Resources
More resources for mental health are available, including:
Not One More Vet: Dr. Nicole McArthur founded an organization called Not One More Vet, an online support group with over 16,000 veterinary professionals worldwide that exists to create a sense of community and support. Learn more about the amazing work this organization does by visiting Not One More Vet.
Mental Health America: Check out this ToolKit from Mental Health America, which is accessible in English and Spanish for ways to support your mental health and the health of those around you.
