Mental Health in Wildlife Rehabilitation
Compassion fatigue, burnout, and other mental health challenges are important considerations in the field of wildlife rehabilitation—just as they are in many caregiving and trauma-related professions. As a community, it's vital that we support one another and recognize when it's time to ask for help. The resources on this page are curated to assist wildlife care professionals in navigating the often overwhelming and sometimes stigmatized world of mental health. Pay attention to your own well-being, check in regularly with colleagues and friends, and know that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Helping the Helpers
In this free excerpt from Introduction to Wildlife Rehabilitation, Dr. Karra Pierce discusses common mental health concerns for wildlife caregivers and offers practical suggestions for building a community of support.
Printed Resources
Ending Your Day as a Wildlife Rehabilitator is a printable PDF resource that guides you through a mindfulness exercise as you close out your day to prepare to transition into other parts of your life.
Affirmations for a Wildlife Rehabilitator is a printable list of statements of affirmation written by wildlife care professionals for wildlife care professionals. Read them, say them, believe them.
You cannot fill from an empty cup. Print this short reminder. Post it on your desk or in your animal kitchen, share it with your colleagues and peers.
The IWRC's Going Home Checklist
Online Mental Health Resources
Professional Quality of Life Measure
A variety of resources for recognizing and understanding compassion fatigue, burnout, and secondary trauma.
A variety of interactive resources created to connect people to resources, normalize conversation, and inspire action on mental health.
Anxiety and Depression Association of America
Resources and stories created specifically for caregivers, primarily focused on anxiety disorders and depression.
Service that matches you to professional counselors that are affordable and convenient.
How to Find Time for Self-Care When Caregiving
An article from EveryDayHealth.com