Promoting Student Wellbeing in Veterinary Technology

Abstract

Stress is pervasive among college students, but it is especially troubling among veterinary technology students who will soon enter a profession rife with mental health issues.   Psychological distress, depression, and thoughts of suicide occur at higher rates among veterinary professionals that among other adults in the US.  In an attempt to prepare students for the stresses that await them in their future careers, I began introducing wellness and self-care techniques into the veterinary technology curriculum during the 2017/2018 academic year.  This report describes the wellness techniques that were used, the results of initial surveys on stress management, and implications for further developing the department’s approach to student wellbeing.