Veterinary Behavioral Health Issues Associated with Disaster Response-Results of Global Survey

Abstract

Introduction:

Veterinarians have been identified as a professional group at elevated risk for behavioral health issues associated with an emergency response. Prior studies demonstrate the significant and long-lasting mental health effects experienced by veterinary responders. To examine the scale and scope of behavioral health issues exhibited by veterinary responders, an online anonymous survey was conducted.

Method:

A Qualtrics® survey was conducted to identify the scope and scale of behavioral health issues of veterinarians responding to disasters. Informed consent language and the survey included stress warnings for participants to stop the survey and seek support if needed. A link to the survey was sent to veterinarians from contact lists and the survey link was coded for reuse so it could be forwarded to others. Sending emails announcing the survey were sent and the survey was open for one month following the second notice. The results were tabulated and analyzed by the authors.

Results:

Fifty-one percent of respondents reported experiencing at least one behavioral health symptom during the disaster response and 34% reported at least one behavioral health symptom six months after the event. Milder symptoms such as loss of sleep and anxiety decreased significantly after six months, however more severe symptoms such as mood swings (24/22), depression (21/21), nightmares (18/20), and suicidal thoughts (5/5) did not significantly decrease. Sixteen percent reported support during the event and 13% reported support after.

Conclusion:

Survey analysis indicated that the scale and scope of veterinary responders’ behavioral health issues are significant, and the findings indicate that further study and action to improve health outcomes is warranted. Recommendations include developing standards and guidelines, incorporating behavioral health training into response activities, developing assessment and reporting protocols, collaborating with other professions to determine best practices, and providing funding for further research on behavioral health.