This article contains detailed discussion of suicide and suicide methods. If you are having thoughts of suicide, text 741-741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor right away or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255) The topic of suicide is a potential trigger for those struggling with feelings of guilt after the loss… Read More
Wellness
Drug Restriction Doesn’t Address the Causes of Suicide… and Seat Belts Don’t Address the Causes of Auto Accidents
Suicide in veterinary medicine is rampant, and one of the two most common means of suicide among veterinarians is pharmaceutical poisoning1. In cases where suicide is an impulsive decision [in one study, 48% of suicide attempt survivors said they made an attempt within 10 minutes of making the suicide decision2], restricting access to lethal medications… Read More
How to Stay Sane When the Clinic is Slammed in the Summer
You have been given the opportunity to join a very elite club. It involves long days, sometimes even longer nights, sick patients literally falling from the ceiling with a slow appointment slot or two squeezed in between. Do you join? Or rescind the invitation that has been thrust upon you?!? You didn’t ask for this,… Read More
Uncharted Podcast Tackles Reducing the Risk of Suicide in Your Practice
Dr. Andy Roark and Co-host Stephanie Goss talk about the new #4eyessavelives initiative in their newest Uncharted Veterinary podcast. Goss interviews Roark about why he believes that restricting access to lethal drugs can save lives in veterinary medicine. The duo discusses the reasons this approach makes sense, how to implement it into your own practice,… Read More
The Power of Positivity
For some reason no matter where I am in life, I have never felt good enough. It started early on in life and always overshadowed any success I had. I knew in high school that I would become a veterinary technician, so I worked toward that goal. When I got the letter (yes, I’m that… Read More
A Letter to the Moms of Veterinary Medicine
As a mother in veterinary medicine, I can tell you one thing, it hasn’t been easy. I am a divorced mother who has been co-parenting with my ex since my son was three years old. I have busted my butt as a technician to be able to provide us a place to live, rent and… Read More