I found a wonderful resource online that provides a pretty thorough listing of veterinary-related associations, organizations and societies. Like other healthcare professionals, you are people, too, and may need some support in the many different areas of your lives–both professionally and personally.
If you point your browser to The Agape Center, you’ll find links to an array of veterinary organizations. These groups offer everything from industry news, events, trends, continuing education and seminars, to library resources, publications, career and practice guidance, current research, legislation/policy information, advocacy and products.
On a more serious note, according to the Alabama Veterinary Professionals Wellness Program’s (AVPWP) website, “studies have shown that approximately one out of three vets will experience a serious mental or physical health problem during their career. Unfortunately, there aren’t many programs such as this in the US aimed at veterinarians in particular. Veterinary schools don’t really teach students how to cope with the stresses associated with the profession in terms of mental health. ” British study concluded that veterinarians experience the highest incidence of suicide compared to all other occupations, outranking dentists and doctors in risk factors. Research conducted by Dr. Richard Mellanby and published in the Veterinary Record in October of 2005 indicates that the suicide rate for the veterinary profession is four times higher than that of the general population and twice as high as that of doctors or dentists,” writes author Candy Lawrence in an article on the subject.
On the bright side, the Alabama Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, in cooperation with the Alabama Veterinary Medical Association, ALVMA, has sponsored the passage of a law in Alabama that creates a confidential program to assist veterinarians’ the AVPWP— that I mentioned above.
Also of particular interest, given that an overwhelming number of vet students and veterinarians are women, is the Association For Women Veterinarians Foundation. It has actually been around for quite a while (1947) and was originally established as a networking group for the few women in the profession at that time. Its vision is to advocate for women and promote leadership in the veterinary profession.
I know my recommendations here are not all-inclusive, so please let us know of any that were left out or that you have found helpful.
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