promoting wellness

It is no secret that mental health is a struggle for many in the veterinary profession.

Long hours, staff shortages, emotionally trying moments with patients, difficult clients, and student debt are just a few of the factors leading to psychological distress. In our 2019 Economic Survey, both veterinarian and RVT members identified mental health and wellness as the number one issue confronting the profession.

To meet our members’ needs, the CVMA has introduced our member assistance program (MAP), LifeWorks. This member benefit provides confidential consultations, information and resources, connections to community agencies and supports, and referrals to counseling (by video or in-person). CVMA members and their families have 24/7 access via phone, online, and by the free mobile app — all at no additional cost!

Additional wellness resources can be found under the Resources tab at cvma.net.

Acknowledging Excellence

There are those special people in the profession who go the extra distance to serve as an inspiration to all.

Whether it is by working long hours while still finding time to mentor, devoting their free time to improving their communities, or participating in organized veterinary medicine, these individuals deserve recognition.

Each year, the CVMA honors veterinarians, registered veterinary technicians, organizations, animals who demonstrate the importance of the human-animal bond, and others who contribute to the veterinary community with a CVMA award at the Pacific Veterinary Conference.

CVMA Award categories include:

• Lifetime Achievement

• Distinguished Life Membership

• California Animal Hall of Fame

• Outstanding RVT of the Year in Private Practice

This benefit is sponsored by

• Linda Markland RVT of the Year in Non-Private Practice

• California RVT’s Outstanding DVM of the Year

• Meritorious Service

• Outstanding Service

For descriptions of each award and nominating criteria, visit the Membership tab at cvma.net.