Banfield Releases Suicide-Prevention Training as a Free Resource

January 23, 2020 — 

On January 6, 2020, Banfield Pet Hospital made its suicide-prevention training - "ASK - Assess, Support, Know" - available as a free resource to the veterinary profession. The first of its kind, Banfield designed "ASK" specifically for veterinary professionals to help them recognize and address emotional distress and suicidal thoughts. [Source: Banfield]

For most veterinary professionals, we know caring for pets is more than a job - it's a calling.

Because of the passion we have for helping pets and the lengths we go to do so, veterinary professionals are faced with rewarding opportunities but also unique challenges, including heartbreaking life-or-death decisions involving beloved companions.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2015) one in six veterinarians considers suicide. Further, the CDC found rates of suicide are 2.1 times higher than the general population among male veterinarians and 3.5 times higher for female veterinarians.

You can access "ASK" at ASKAssessSupportKnow.com. The training includes real-life scenarios, talking points, myth-busting and other resources to help guide veterinary professionals in navigating tough situations.