Vet confessions: Find someone to lean on

The Veterinary Confessionals Project isn't just a great way for veterinary professionals to share their worries in an anonymous forum. It's also a way to see that other people are going through the same struggles as you are. One of the reasons we put the display up at Fetch dvm360 conference is for that reason-we want to help drive the point home that you're not the only one struggling. And having a tribe to support you can make that struggle a little less painful.

See if you can find some comfort or want to go hug a friend after seeing these. And don't forget, you can share your own here.

Work is worth it-with a strong team

Practice is always going to be busy and stressful. Nothing much you can do about that. But having a team you like goes a long way.

At times, I have questioned my place in life, religion, work, the universe. And then I CONNECT with my patient and my purpose is fully clear without question. This is my place, my calling, my passion. I feel closer to higher power by doing what I was called to do. That makes me very lucky and satisfied because I get to pursue my passion every day. <3

One of my favorite things about being a practice manager is helping my staff balance their work and home lives. Our mental health is so important! #<3myjob

I really don't like my job sometimes BUT … my doctors and techs keep me coming back. They are my FAMILY! –from an emergency tech in Phoenix AZ

Sometimes I feel like I'll never make it but then I see the others in my clinic and know that it's all worth it. Keep on keepin' on!

Find some common ground with more confessions on the next page.

Hey, you're not alone

You've hit the end of your rope. You can't do it anymore. Don't worry, a lot of other people feel (or have felt) the same way.

Wow! Many comments are difficult to read; stress, burn-out, difficult clients and staff. What would you tell your best friend to do? We can't help everyone all the time, but we can help ourselves. Take a breath, find joy, be grateful. Don't be afraid of change, follow your heart.

2x suicide survivor … My secret: I found someone bigger than myself to lean on.

I see myself in all of you.

Reading all these “secrets” have made me realize I am not alone. And actually making me feel better. Thank you to everyone willing to share and speak up.

We are ALL on the same team!

All we want to do is help. There is so much pain for caring so much. I love all of you. Thank you for all of it.