The Power of Naming Emotions in Veterinary Practice

As veterinary professionals, we navigate a myriad of emotions daily. From the elation of helping a sick pet recover to the stress of managing a busy appointment schedule, our emotional rollercoaster can be intense and relentless. Amidst these highs and lows, there's a powerful tool at our disposal that often goes overlooked: affect labeling, or the act of naming our emotions.

In the whirlwind of our work, it's easy to get swept up in the tide of our feelings without truly understanding them. Affect labeling offers us a life raft in this sea of emotions. By putting our feelings into words, we gain clarity and insight into our emotional landscape.

Let's delve deeper into why affect labeling is not just a helpful skill but an essential one in veterinary practice.

Enhancing Emotional Literacy

Emotional literacy is the foundation of emotional intelligence, and affect labeling is a cornerstone of this skill set. It allows us to recognize, understand, and express our emotions effectively. In a profession where compassion fatigue and burnout are prevalent, emotional literacy becomes our shield against the toll of our work.

Regulation Emotions

Veterinary medicine is rife with triggers that can elicit strong emotional responses, from difficult cases to demanding clients. In these moments, affect labeling acts as a regulator for our emotions. It's like hitting the brakes when we're hurtling down an emotional highway. By labeling our emotions, we engage the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for processing emotions and controlling behavior, effectively dampening the amygdala's fear-based responses.

A Case in Point

Consider a scenario where you're already stretched thin, and an unexpected staffing crisis hits. You're overwhelmed with feelings of frustration, anxiety, and even anger. In the heat of the moment, it's tempting to suppress these emotions or let them spiral out of control. But by employing affect labeling, you can acknowledge these emotions: "I'm feeling overwhelmed and frustrated because of the added workload."

Building Relationships and Gaining Support

Contrary to popular belief, expressing so-called "negative" emotions doesn't weaken us; it strengthens our connections with others. When we articulate our feelings, whether it's to a colleague, manager, or loved one, we invite understanding and support. In the veterinary setting, this can foster a culture of empathy and collaboration, where team members feel safe expressing their struggles and getting assistance when needed.

Dispelling Myths

On our journey towards emotional wellbeing, it's crucial to debunk common misconceptions:

• Happiness Isn't the Sole Metric: Mental health encompasses a spectrum of emotions, including the uncomfortable ones. Striving for perpetual happiness is unrealistic and unnecessary.
• Avoidance Isn't the Solution: Ignoring or suppressing difficult emotions only exacerbates them. Addressing them head-on through affect labeling is key to resolution.
• Intensity Isn't Permanent: Intense emotions aren't insurmountable. By labeling them, we gain a foothold to manage and navigate them effectively.

Seeking Support when Needed

While affect labeling equips us with valuable tools, it's essential to recognize when professional support is warranted. If emotions become overwhelming or persistent, seeking guidance from a licensed mental health professional is recommended.

Embracing the Discomfort

Now let’s not forget that discussing emotions isn't everyone's cup of tea. In the often stoic world of veterinary practice, delving into our own feelings can seem as awkward as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs. It's understandable that not everyone feels comfortable navigating the labyrinth of their emotional landscape.

However, it's precisely in these uncomfortable moments that growth can occur. Embracing the discomfort is the first step toward mastering the art of affect labeling. Consider it akin to learning a new surgical technique—daunting at first, but immensely rewarding once mastered.

So, while it may feel unfamiliar and perhaps even a tad awkward, remember that acknowledging our emotions is a skill worth cultivating. And who knows, by embracing this discomfort, you might uncover a newfound capacity for emotional insight that enhances both your professional and personal life. After all, even the most seasoned veterinary professionals can benefit from a moment of vulnerability now and then.

Ultimately, affect labeling isn't just a skill; it's a lifeline in the tumultuous waters of veterinary practice. By embracing this practice, we empower ourselves to navigate our emotions with clarity, resilience, and compassion, ultimately fostering a healthier, more supportive work environment.

Dr. Marie Holowaychuk is a small animal emergency and critical care specialist and certified yoga and meditation teacher who passionately advocates for the mental health and wellbeing of veterinary teams. Marie facilitates online RACE-approved wellbeing programs for veterinary professionals and is the host of the Reviving Vet Med podcast. To learn more or to sign up for Marie’s monthly e-newsletter, please visit: www.marieholowaychuk.com.