Veterinary medicine is an intensely emotional field and mental health challenges are real, but they are complicated and do not define the profession, says Kerry Karaffa, mental health and well-being coordinator at the University of Missouri’s College of Veterinary Medicine. He says research shows that access to lethal means is a more significant factor in veterinary professionals’ suicide risk than stress or the requirement to perform euthanasia.
Karaffa warns against creating a cultural script that normalizes mental health struggles as an unavoidable aspect of working as a veterinary professional.
Source: KBIA, July 26, 2023. Link.
People have a tendency to get rather reductionistic. We want answers, we want to know ‘A plus B equals C.’ But the truth is . . . there’s a host of factors that can play into it.” – Kerry Karaffa
INSIGHTS: If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.