Perinatal mental health is still a taboo topic in many medical professions — including veterinary medicine — despite the very real impact it has on professionals during pregnancy and postpartum. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Emily Singler — veterinarian, mom of four, and author of Pregnancy and Postpartum Considerations for the Veterinary Team — to discuss how mental health challenges show up during this pivotal life phase, and what can be done to support those going through it.
Emily shares insights from her chapter on mental health, including distinctions between mental health and wellness, common perinatal mental health disorders (such as depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and psychosis), and the many ways veterinary professionals can access help and healing. We also explore the vital role of social support, self-care, therapy, and medication, and how veterinary workplaces can evolve to better support expectant and new parents.
If you’ve ever struggled with the demands of working parenthood, or want to be a better ally to colleagues who are, this episode is full of practical insights, heartfelt reflections, and compassionate guidance.
Watch the Video Version of this Episode
https://youtu.be/iZSqsXSaSpI
Resources
Purchase Dr. Emily Singler’s book: Pregnancy and Postpartum Considerations for the Veterinary Team: https://www.routledge.com/Pregnancy-and-Postpartum-Considerations-for-the-Veterinary-Team/Singler/p/book/9781032524993
Follow Emily Singler on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-singler-vmd/ and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/emilysinglervmd/
Explore Emily Singler’s website for her coaching and consulting offerings: http://emilysinglervmd.com/
Postpartum Support International: https://postpartum.net/
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