My dream job took an incredible toll on my mental health.
Of course, there were many reasons why this job impacted my mental health, but this was just one I happened to be discussing last night with a friend who was not in the industry.
I am still impacted by the loss of the animals I cared for and those that have passed since I left. I am still impacted by the numerous times, I said goodbye to a beautiful soul only to turn around and put on a happy face while I spoke on the devastation of climate change, biodiversity collapse, and habitat loss.
Support was limited, we were not encouraged to feel our emotions or seek counseling, and I bottled up my tears throughout the day until I wet the inside of my helmet as I rode home on my motorcycle.
I have many friends still working in animal care and there are many young individuals who are dreaming of their first zookeeping job. I hope this research and conversation will help ensure all animal care specialists are emotionally and mentally supported by their team members, organization, and the industry as a whole.
Woodland Park Zoo will be hosting an online presentation about Denver Zoological Foundation's new study on burnout, mental health and animal loss in zoo professionals. Event is open to all: Join on April 16 at 12:30 pm (Pacific Time).
Attend here: https://lnkd.in/eXFZ9NbT
I'm an educator and story teller with a fire for people, birth, animals and the ties that connect us all. Passionate about promoting conservation, education and engagement
1yway to go mamas