World Mental Health Day: Finding Calm in the Chaos

This October, we’re joining the global conversation around mental health by recognizing World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10. This year’s theme centers on the feeling of overwhelm, a powerful reminder of the importance of pausing, reflecting, and prioritizing our mental well-being. 

What is Overwhelm and what does it look like?   

Overwhelm in veterinary settings often shows up as a mix of emotional, mental, and physical strain. Team members may feel emotionally exhausted, detached, or unmotivated, often due to high workloads, time pressure, and emotionally intense client interactions. This can lead to compassion fatigue, physical symptoms like fatigue or sleep issues, and even thoughts of leaving the profession. The AVMA identifies these signs as common indicators of burnout and stress in veterinary teams. 

Tips to Manage Overwhelm 

The Mental Health Foundation offers helpful tips for managing overwhelm in the face of difficult news, many of which apply just as well in a busy veterinary hospital. Strategies like focusing on what you can control and talking with others can make a big difference. Check out their flyer for more practical tips. 

Vetcor’s Culture of Care 

At Vetcor, we believe that no one should face those feelings alone. That’s why we’ve built a culture of support, connection, and shared resources to help our teams thrive, even in challenging times. 

We’ve highlighted some of these efforts in recent blog posts: 

National Suicide Prevention Month: A reminder that help is always available, and that reaching out is a sign of strength. 

Finding Balance for Veterinary Teams: Practical ways to create space for rest and recovery, even during busy seasons. 

Social Well-Being Through Mentorship & Collaboration: How connection, mentorship, and teamwork can help lighten the load. 

Well-being Resources for Veterinary Professionals 

The veterinary industry has access to a growing list of mental health resources. Veterinary professionals can find tailored mental health support through Not One More Vet, which offers peer support, crisis intervention, and impactful programs like Lifeboat and online support groups. The American Veterinary Medical Association also provides a wide range of wellbeing resources, including self-assessment tools, webinars, and guidance for fostering a culture of care in veterinary practices. 

How Vetcor prioritizes mental health 

As a member of Team Vetcor, you have access to a wide range of resources designed to support your overall well-being.

This includes Vetcor University, where you’ll find courses like Crisis Response in the Veterinary Workplace, created to help you navigate challenging situations and support others in need. Our Employee Experience Team is here to offer personalized support whenever you need it most, as well. 

In addition, you have a comprehensive Employee Assistance Program, which includes mental health resources and free therapy sessions for team members and their dependents through Lyra Health for U.S.-based team members and Telus Health via Manulife for those in Canada. 

Together, we’re creating a stronger, more compassionate community.