Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. An important moment to reflect on the mental health burden of many veterinary professionals and to highlight the many resources of VetJoy. These include a list of veterinary helplines for colleagues in need (e.g. for the UK, Germany, France).
Resources
Resources are also available in Italy and the Netherlands. And check out other great resources on mental health and wellbeing, such as those produced by VetJoy and Fecava. Be kind yourself. Because you matter.
Discussing suicide safely
For colleagues of those with suicidal thoughts, here’s an insightful paper by Rosie Allister (UK) on how to discuss the topic safely, as well as a 1-hour webinar, because choosing the right words matters. In brief, her top tips are:
- Be careful with language. Fact check, and avoid language that sensationalises suicide. Do not describe methods of suicide.
- Don't oversimplify. Don't suggest a single cause for suicide (e.g. veterinary clients being uncivil) as this can increase risk of suicide contagion. It is more responsible to acknowledge there are many complex causes.
- Avoid stereotypes. Do not use terms that paint vets as martyrs who ‘died while helping’, or imply that causes will or should be taken more seriously after their death.
- Respect the bereaved. Discussions on social media may cause distress to people who are bereaved. Posts may unintentionally imply blame for clients, colleagues, and loved ones of deceased vets. Only post what you know to be true and avoid speculating about an individual's thoughts or feelings.
- Always signpost support. Highlight stories of hope and avenues of help.
- Memorialisation. Social media pages in memory of people who have died may increase suicide risk among psychologically vulnerable people, particularly if they romanticise death as a release from difficulty. Respond immediately to people who are expressing suicidal thoughts – listen supportively and direct them to other support.
(photo ©Karolina Grabowska/Pexels)