Jon Geller, DVM, DABVP, writes about this serious issue in veterinary medicine. He cites veterinary team access to a large variety of mind-altering, potentially addictive drugs, including controlled and non-controlled substances. He also notes light or non-existent drug testing, light inventory access and control, and inconsistent employee assistance programs for substance abuse problems.
Source: DVM 360, July 18, 2016.
A groundbreaking study led by CDC researcher Dr. Randy Nett reports that nearly one in 10 veterinarians in the United States may suffer from serious psychological distress and more than one in six may have experienced suicidal ideation since graduation.