Commentary
The old saying, ”it ain’t over ‘til it’s over,” is appropriate for this time period. In recent conversations and reports, the stress levels on animal hospital teams is nearly a constant topic. Juggling heavier client loads, new staffing models, staff members balancing at-home schooling and work are some of the reasons.
National Veterinary Technician Week is October 11-17 and acknowledges and celebrates the work of veterinary technicians and nurses. Especially now, it is appropriate to realize that a lot of the changes the industry is experiencing run downhill for them to catch and deal with.
Vet techs are known for their willingness to serve, step up and just get it done.
But catching all the stuff all the time can build up. The human spirit can take only so much stress, anxiety and pressure before it falters. Everyone has his or her breaking point. Often, we don’t even know what that point is unless we are tested.
. . . that you’re suffering or struggling enough that you feel as if you’re getting closer and closer to a point where you cannot go on is an indication of a possible mental breakdown”
Source: Mental breakdown symptoms: Are you on the edge? University Health News, June 23, 2020. Link. Alison Palkhivala discusses mental breakdowns and shares 15 symptoms that you might be getting close to the edge.
INSIGHTS: Take time to listen to veterinary technicians in the coming weeks. Find out how things felt to them. Inquire about their personal challenges and wins during this pandemic period. Ask them for feedback about how things are running at the clinic or in your business. They WILL have feedback if your approach is genuine.