Vetlife launches suicide postvention guidance
"Suicide postvention is the response and provision of support after a suicide" - Vetlife.
Vetlife, a wellbeing and support charity for the veterinary community, has recently launched guidance for veterinary workplaces that have experienced a suicide.
Intended for people who have been affected by the suicide of a veterinary professional, the postvention guidance aims to support the recovery of those affected.
As Vetlife says on its website, the guidance features information on suicide bereavement, responses to suicide loss and who can help, veterinary workplace considerations after a suicide – with both long-term and short-term impact considered.
The guidance also discusses communication around veterinary suicide, with direction on how to discuss the suicide with colleagues and clients, and how best to handle it publicly and on social media platforms.
Also included is an action checklist tool for veterinary practices bereaved by a suicide, providing immediate, short term and ongoing actions to support colleagues and the practice.
Alongside the guidance provided, Vetlife is also able to provide personalised support to veterinary professionals and workplaces who have experienced a suicide.
Vetlife confirmed on its website: “If you are a UK veterinary professional who has been affected by suicide or wants support for a veterinary workplace, please contact 0303 040 2551.”
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. 
