Finding Joy in the ER: Stories, Strategies, and Support for Mental Health Awareness Month
May 5, 2025Veterinary professionals know all too well that burnout and compassion fatigue are real — and in emergency settings, the challenges can be even greater. The unpredictability, the pace, and the severity of cases make it essential that team members have access to meaningful support. At Ethos Veterinary Health, we prioritize mental well-being as part of our culture — because attracting and retaining the best talent means fostering an environment where our people can truly thrive.
This May, during Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re sharing what joy looks like in our ERs and highlighting the wellness practices and resources that support our teams.
Looking for Moments of Joy
At WVRC in Waukesha, Wisconsin, Kelsey Klavon, BS, CVT, VTS (ECC), finds joy in the small, meaningful moments — a kind word from a client, a coworker’s win, or a sweet patient. “It’s about focusing on what you love about the job,” she shares. Music is one of her favorite tools for lifting the mood during high-intensity shifts.
At Colorado Animal Specialty & Emergency, Dr. Rachel Swetz finds her joy in the strength of her team. “I came to work sick and voiceless one day, thinking I could power through. My coworkers stepped in, ushered me home with care — and I felt so supported.” That culture of care and camaraderie is a big part of what sets her hospital — and the broader Ethos network — apart.
The Power of Teamwork
Emergency medicine isn’t for everyone, Kelsey notes — but when you’re surrounded by the right team, the bond is unmatched. “Whether it’s a difficult case or a big success, sharing those moments builds deep trust.”
That kind of trust is foundational — not just for patient care but for psychological safety. “There are cases that hit close to home,” she says. “It’s important to know your team has your back when you need a breather.”
That sense of collaboration is actively supported at Ethos through tools like Team Agreements — customized at each site with the help of our Community Team. These agreements foster a positive, aligned workplace culture by defining shared values and communication norms — helping every individual feel seen and supported.
Balancing ER Demands with Self-Care
For Dr. Swetz, a daily ritual of reflection helps her leave work at work: processing what went well and what was tough before she heads home. Kelsey uses boundaries like a separate work calendar and limits on after-hours emails to protect her time off. “The more trust I build with my team, the easier it is to fully disconnect — and that supports everyone.”
Both agree that strong team support is essential to making this possible.
Resting and Recharging
Kelsey models the importance of rest by encouraging her team to take breaks — and to fuel themselves with healthy food. “It doesn’t have to be big — even packing snacks helps protect your energy.”
Dr. Swetz makes space for regular meditation, movement, and time with loved ones, noting that good habits built over time are key to long-term mental health.
For deeper restoration, Ethos offers transformational retreats, which give veterinary professionals the time and space to reflect, grow, and return re-energized.
- Health of Healers is a four-day immersive experience designed for site leaders to explore how to recharge, get grounded, and take their leadership to the next level. In a peaceful, retreat setting, participants learn to move beyond burnout and refocus on personal and professional fulfillment.
- Women Empowering Women is a three-day retreat for women in leadership, focused on developing authentic leadership styles, boosting professional longevity, and finding balance in work and life. It’s one more way we invest in the people who power our hospitals.
Ethos Resources – We’re Here to Help
We encourage every team member to develop a mental health plan — a combination of small habits, strong connections, and proactive self-care. And when those aren’t enough, help is always available.
Our confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is open to all team members and their families — regardless of enrollment status. It offers:
- 24/7 access to licensed therapists
- 8 free in-person sessions per issue, per year
- Text therapy, digital support groups, and self-guided tools
Whether you’re facing stress, family issues, or just need a sounding board, the EAP provides personalized care, anytime.
If you or someone you care about is in crisis, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, or text TALK to 741741.