Confronting the “Sunday Scaries” and Fear of the Unknown

As Sunday evening approaches, many veterinarians feel that familiar wave of anxiety—the “Sunday scaries.” This sense of unease can grow as we contemplate what the week ahead may bring.  We know, we’ve been there.

The Sunday Scaries: A Common Dread

For veterinarians, the Sunday scaries often stem from a mix of pressures. We carry the well-being of our furry friends close to our hearts, knowing that each patient is more than just a number on a schedule. Thoughts of unresolved cases and difficult conversations with pet owners and hospital management can linger. With each new week comes a fresh set of challenges—unexpected medical issues and emotionally charged client interactions. This unpredictability can create a sense of apprehension. Questions swirl in our minds:

• “What if a critical case arises?”
• “How will I manage my time effectively amidst the chaos?”
• “And, importantly, will I have the emotional strength to support my patients, their families, and myself this week?”

And those are just the work-related things that haunt us—on top of the mental load of life outside our jobs. Juggling family commitments, household tasks, and personal responsibilities adds another layer of complexity. We often find ourselves wondering how to carry it all without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a chilling reminder that, while our professional lives are filled with demands and pressures, we need to find the strength to address these challenges, prioritizing our well-being and seeking support to navigate the complexities of our careers and busy lives.

The Toll on Mental Health

This blend of Sunday scaries and fear of the unknown can take a toll on our mental health. Feelings of anxiety, burnout, and even imposter syndrome can emerge, affecting not just job performance but overall well-being. At IndeVets, we recognize the importance of addressing these feelings rather than allowing them to fester. Open conversations about mental health within our community and with our very own dedicated veterinary social worker are essential for creating a supportive environment amidst the pressures of our work.

Strategies for Battling this Haunting Feeling

To help navigate those Sunday nerves and the uncertainty of the week ahead, here are some supportive strategies to lift your spirits:

• Mindfulness and Reflection: Take a moment to reflect on the past week’s achievements and challenges. Mindfulness exercises—like deep breathing or meditation—can help center your thoughts and ease anxiety.
• Create a Support Network: Connect with colleagues who understand the unique pressures of veterinary work. Sharing your experiences can foster a sense of community and help alleviate feelings of isolation.
• Set Realistic Goals: As the new week begins, establish achievable goals for yourself. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps can provide clarity and reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.
• Seek Professional Support: If anxiety persists, don’t hesitate to seek help. Talking to someone, whether through counseling or peer support groups, can offer valuable insights and coping strategies.

Eliminating the Sunday Scaries as an IndeVet

While the Sunday scaries and fear of the unknown can affect anyone in their job, there is a way to reclaim control. As a Flexible Associate veterinarian, you can choose when and where you work, alleviating some of the burdens that contribute to anxiety. Imagine stepping into a clinic for a shift, free from administrative responsibilities and workplace drama, able to focus solely on patient care—what a liberating thought!

With IndeVets, you also benefit from a supportive community that fosters collaboration and camaraderie. The network of associate relief veterinarians provides a chance to share experiences, seek advice, and build friendships, making new challenges feel less daunting.

Many of our associate veterinarians report that their Sunday scaries have significantly diminished, maybe lingering in small ways around things like preparation for new hospitals. Before joining IndeVets, many of us were concerned about the unknown aspects of what we thought would be traditional relief work. But IndeVets is anything but traditional. Instead, we have the support and community to embrace that our job is different daily—different hospitals, unfamiliar support staff, and access to various equipment. With the proper support, you will find the confidence to practice good medicine in any setting, no matter how unfamiliar it may seem!

Hear from Our Associate IndeVet Veterinarians

• “I used to cry on the way to work EVERY DAY (and I’m not really a crier!). Realizing that I was so scared to go into work and face the day helped me realize I needed a change. I certainly don’t cry about work anymore!” – Dr. SC
• “I remember being petrified that the sick patients that I saw the week prior would deteriorate during the weekend, ignore my recommendations to seek ER care due to cost, and demand to be fit into a full schedule or just call upset and yell at me(even if they did go to ER).” – Dr. CR
• “I honestly don’t have them anymore! I embrace that veterinary medicine is different every day. I can do my best for the day at a partner hospital, and then I clock out and get to fully relax at home. I can handle anything for a day!” – Dr. SD
• “I worked weekends for a long time. So it wasn’t Sunday scaries as much as I dreaded every day. I had a lot of negative thoughts during those times. I don’t have that anymore.” Dr. LW
• “I was amazed at how quickly my Sunday Scaries (mostly) went away when I became an IndeVet! Reflecting of those feelings of anxiety has been a good lesson to listen when my body is telling me something. For example, when preparing to return to a clinic where I’ve worked before, I’m mindful of how I sleep, my mood, and any ruminating. This awareness is helping me realize which clinics truly bring me joy and should be a focus in my schedule.” Dr. SH
• “I still feel a mix of nerves and excitement on my first shift at a new clinic. While I might not sleep well the night before, I’ve learned that it usually goes smoothly.” Dr. KS

Final thoughts

Many of us in the veterinary field regularly face the Sunday scaries and fear of the unknown. Yet, by acknowledging these feelings and employing coping strategies, we can illuminate our concerns and create a healthier work environment. Together, we can face the uncertainties of our profession with resilience and compassion, transforming our fears into strengths. Remember, you are not alone in this journey; support is always within reach, and brighter days lie ahead.

-Ghostwritten by various IndeVets employees