Mental health stream gets underway
Dr Modgil listed some of the warning signs of mental illness, which can be physical, psychological or behavioural.
"If you want a happy, well-run workforce, then you need to look after your employee's mental wellbeing”. This was the take home message from GP and broadcaster Dr Radha Modgil, speaking at the VPMA and SPVS Congress in Newport.
Kickstarting the Mind Matters stream, Dr Modgil outlined how to recognise common mental health problems in oneself and colleagues - and the steps to take once these have been identified.
Mental health is an increasingly pressing issue in the veterinary profession. In recent years, studies have shown that the rate of suicide amongst vets is around four times higher than the national average. Low rates of pay, long hours and stress are all thought to be reasons why so many vets are forced to take time off sick or leave the profession altogether.
During the session, Dr Modgil listed some of the warning signs of mental illness, which can be physical (fatigue, headache, difficulty sleeping); psychological (depression, anxiety, irritability, anger or pessimism); or behavioural (increase in sick days, mood swings, a drop in work performance and disinterest).
She then gave delegates some practical ideas for what to do if they think a colleague may be suffering from mental illness. Some of which include:
- Increasing awareness
- Ending stigma
- Talking openly
- Creating an open environment in which to share concerns
- A bespoke plan to help the employee with their recovery
She added that we should all be encouraging self-help, like exercise, diet and the benefits of regular relaxation. Interestingly, one veterinary practice in the UK already holds a 10-minute meditation class at lunch for its employees.
Dr Modgil writes for various publications and is currently a resident doctor on Radio 1’s ‘The Surgery’. In addition to her work as an NHS GP, Dr Modgil works closely with Mind, helping to promote their campaigns.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
