THRIVE FAQs
THRIVE is an industry led veterinary wellness initiative that aims to support veterinarians and veterinary staff to lead satisfying, prosperous, and healthy careers. Championed by the Australian Veterinary Association.
When addressing mental health across a workplace or workforce it is important to take an integrated approach. An integrated approach to workplace or workforce mental health encompasses three main areas of activity:
(i) Preventing harm or protecting mental health by reducing work-related and other risk factors for mental health problems.
(ii) Promoting mental health by developing the positive aspects of work as well as worker strengths and positive capacities, and
(iii) Managing illness and responding to mental health problems as they manifest at work, regardless of cause. Protecting individuals who are experiencing mental ill-health so they can return to work and thrive.
THRIVE activities are based on this framework.
Prevent. Promote. Protect.
Preventing harm from psychosocial hazards in the industry, promoting strengths, capabilities, and the rewards of work, and protecting us when we experience stress and are unwell.
The THRIVE Guiding Principles are a framework designed by the AVA Veterinary Wellness Steering Group that help support us in managing change, making informed decisions, and staying aligned with THRIVE goals.
|
Principle |
Description |
|
Evidence-Based |
Our initiatives and decisions are based on evidence, and we prioritise responding to the data from our profession |
|
Needed |
We scan our environment to ensure we only develop what is needed, and always ask ourselves ‘Is there a real gap?’ |
|
Inclusive |
We promote activities and programs that are relevant to all members of our profession. |
|
Action Oriented |
Our initiatives and decisions lead to meaningful action within the Prevent|Promote|Protect pillars. We walk our talk. |
|
Measurable |
We measure the impact of our initiatives and take responsibility for outcomes. |
|
Cost Effective |
We are always mindful of our financial stewardship of membership funds. |
Industry specific Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Framework
Prevent-Promote-Protect resources
24hr telephone counselling/EAP service
Graduate Mentoring Program
Mental Health First Aid online training
Cultivating Safe Teams Pilot Program
Annual Veterinary Wellness Symposium
Quarterly wellness webinars
Wellness Exhibition Stand at AVA National
Yes – all veterinary professionals will be able to access the programs and resources.
A (National) veterinary wellness steering group was formed in August 2022 to assist the AVA Board and Management to successfully deliver our THRIVE wellness initiatives. The steering group will inform best practice for all THRIVE initiatives – supporting and protecting the wellbeing of all veterinary practitioners.
If you’re interested in finding out more about THRIVE, please contact us.
Monika Cole – Executive Officer Wellness
