Recently, I was at a conference and two different people introduced themselves to me as a reader of the newsletter and the parent of a vet professional. Apparently, there is a not-insignificant percentage of you who get this email not because you are in practice, but because you wish to understand the world that someone you care about lives in.
First of all, welcome. This is a great honor to have you here, and I hope my writings will give you insight into the ups and downs experienced by those you love.
Second, I have a real treat for you today!
Years ago, a documentary film team came to visit me at my home and to follow me around at the clinic. They were interested in why veterinary professionals struggle with wellness and mental health. I was one of a number of practitioners who were interviewed, and a year later I wondered if the documentary would ever actually be seen.
Last week, I was thrilled to see that PBS picked it up and it can be streamed right now for free.
I hope you all will take a look, as this documentary does a great job of highlighting both the stressors and the hopeful potential of veterinary medicine. It’s just under an hour long, and I’m so pleased with how it came out.
I want to say here that, although this was recorded about 4 years ago, my view that veterinary medicine is a wonderful profession and my belief that raising awareness has already helped improve our wellbeing have not changed. I’m as optimistic as ever about where veterinary medicine is going, even as we stare down very real challenges.
I hope you will enjoy the film!
Andy
