Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 1, 2026

Animal Models of Depression - Chronic Despair Model CDM
Published on: September 23, 2021
Attachment loss and trauma: A descriptive phenomenological analysis of suicidality and depression in veterinarians
Dana Waters1, Gwendolyn Barnhart1, Jessica Cowan1
1Department of Applied Psychology, Antioch University, Seattle.
Objective:
Suicidality and depression are disproportionately prevalent among veterinarians. Researchers for this study sought to explore the lived experiences of veterinarians in order to better identify the factors that contribute to this phenomenon.
Method:
Using a qualitative descriptive phenomenological approach, small animal veterinarians in the greater Seattle area were interviewed and provided their respective occupational experiences as they related to depression, suicidality, and coping.
Results:
Analysis of the interviews revealed attachment loss and trauma to be primary factors contributing to veterinary depression and suicidality.
Conclusions:
These findings provide the basis for future research and trauma-informed interventions to reduce distress and suicidality in this population. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).
Related Concept Videos
Depressive Disorders: Etiology
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events,...
Long-term Depression
Long-term Depression
Calcium Ion Concentration Mechanism
If over...
Avoidance Learning and Learned Helplessness
Avoidance learning occurs when an organism learns that a specific behavior can prevent an unpleasant outcome. For example, a student who receives a bad grade may start studying harder to avoid future poor grades. This behavior persists even when the negative outcome is no longer present. Avoidance learning is powerful because it maintains behavior in the absence of the...
Hazan and Shaver's Attachment Styles

