Ontario Veterinary College | Alumni | University of Guelph

Ontario Veterinary College

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OVC Wellness Rotation

In recent years, evidence has come to light that depression, anxiety, and stress are common in veterinary medicine. In fact, a study done by researchers at the OVC (currently in press with JAVMA) confirms that depression, anxiety, burnout, empathetic distress, and suicidal ideation are experienced at elevated levels in Canadian veterinarians.

In one way or another, each of us have been touched by mental health struggles. While many institutions are talking about it, very few are doing something about it.

 

Shannon Finn, DVM
Class of OVC 2018

"As a recent OVC grad (Class of 2018, the Ivory Owls), I am grateful for the opportunity to speak about this important subject, and to ask for your help. You see, I was one of the first participants in a new 4th-year rotation that was developed based on the findings of OVC’s Advancement of Wellness and Resilience via Research and Education (AWAR2E) group. Yes, we still do rotations like small animal surgery, oncology, and diagnostic imaging, but students now also have the option to sign up for a Wellness Rotation that provides life-changing resources and training in resiliency.

For me, it was an incredible experience and one that has supported me well in my early career. During my time in the rotation, we did a bio-feedback exercise practicing breathing techniques while being monitored and I saw in real-time how your breath can change your vital signs in a positive way. This knowledge was very helpful to me during the breaks in my NAVLE exam!

I was thrilled to learn this year that the rotation has grown to its current maximum capacity of 32 students. OVC has done the right thing by making mental health and wellness for its students a top priority. By teaching students these skills, we can thrive in the face of these challenges.

Phase 4 students are in a position of unique need — on the brink of entering the profession, they are leaving their comfort zone and being “pushed out of the nest” so to speak. While nothing can truly prepare you, I can vouch for the powerful learnings of the Wellness Rotation, and its ability to help students through this tough transition. The demand is high among OVC students, and this rotation is exclusively donor funded. Your support will help current students participate and allow the program to meet future demand.

With your donation, OVC can provide more resources to more students, serve as a model for other schools, and take a huge step in improving mental health and wellness for the veterinary profession, one veterinarian at a time. Please consider a gift to the OVC Wellness Rotation this year." - Shannon Finn, DVM '18

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