Having a glass of wine at the end of the day or losing yourself in social media or streaming services is a quick and easy way to wind down at the end of the day. It feels like it helps – and it certainly may, but only in the short term and when used intermittently.
The problem is that alcohol and avoidance can actually make things worse in the long term.
If you are looking for a way to manage your job stress and build work satisfaction, a way that goes to the source of the stress and is helpful in the long term AS WELL as the short term, maybe you should consider joining our Balint group?
You and a group of your peers will meet monthly from May to October to debrief challenging work situations – to support and learn from each other. All members of the veterinary team are welcome. Each of the Balint Group six sessions will run for 1.5 hours and there is no preparatory work or homework.
A Balint group could be helpful for you if you identify with any of the statements below;
-You are travelling well and want to stay that way
-You find your work demanding and regularly go home feeling emotionally exhausted.
-Euthanasia is getting harder and harder.
-Other people’s behavior and decisions are perplexing. You often think the worst about their motivations.
-Thoughts of cases or conversations churn around in your mind, even when you have left work.
-Your family and friends are worried about your stress levels and questioning why you work in the industry
Committing to a group and being willing to share your experiences takes energy, effort and courage. And the energy, effort and courage will be worthwhile as you gain support, understanding and ideas on how to do and see things differently.
Peer support programs are being recognized as needing to be standard in high-risk organisations1. Mental ill-health statistics identify the veterinary industry as a high-risk industry.
Is it time for you to make the investment in a peer support program?
Sign up to our on-line Balint group this 2019. Register HERE. For more info, check out the brochure.
Creamer et al (2012) Guidelines for peer support in high-risk organisations: An international consensus study using the Delphi method. J of Traumatic Stress, 25, 134-141