As World Menopause Day approaches on 18th October, WellVet has announced the completion of its comprehensive suite of free menopause resources for veterinary team members. The 23 bitesize videos and audio include information and practical advice based on the pillars of lifestyle medicine and the neuropsychology of hormones, and are aimed at both individuals impacted directly by symptoms of perimenopause and those wanting to support them.
Resources can be accessed via the URL or by scanning the QR code https://www.wellvet.co.uk/resources/menopause-resources-for-veterinary-teams/
The site also includes links to additional resources, including a short animation produced in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh raising awareness about the importance of this topic. As part of the project, WellVet Director, Liz Barton also founded the peer-support group Veterinary Menopause Chats on Facebook, as a space for veterinary team members to share their experiences, knowledge, and ideas for help.
Liz said, “We now know that for more than half of veterinary team members, perimenopause symptoms impact their mental health, and a third report a significant impact on their working life and career.[1] Symptoms typically occur between the ages of 40-60 years, and can last for a decade or more with significant health impacts including cardiovascular, neurological and orthopaedic disease. We also know that mis-diagnosis is common and women often wait until symptoms are severe and debilitating before seeking help. These videos will empower individuals to take control of their symptom monitoring, have meaningful conversations with medical professionals, and make adjustments to improve their health and wellbeing. The content also provides guidance to help all of us support friends, family, colleagues and clients who may be impacted.
Liz believes perimenopause is the most significant health challenge the profession needs to focus on, “We saw a significant positive shift in the way we think and talk about mental health and wellbeing through the 2010s. Now we need the same to happen with menopause. In a predominantly female profession facing a workforce crisis, it’s vital we support team members in the workplace. Perimenopause also coincides with the peak ages for women to die by suicide. We MUST do more to provide meaningful support.”
She includes a rallying cry for the industry to play its part, “I have to extend a huge thanks to the sponsors without whose support and encouragement these resources could not have been created. We would welcome additional support to continue developing and hosting these resources, and most importantly to encourage team members to access the content so they can give and receive support at this challenging life stage.”
WellVet is also exploring research collaborations to better understand the impact on veterinary team members. Anyone interested in getting involved or sponsoring the next phases of this vital work is warmly invited to contact liz@wellvet.co.uk.
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