Imposter syndrome and the veterinary profession

摘要: Have you ever experienced feelings of self-doubt or feared being exposed as incompetent? These are common reactions associated with imposter syndrome (IS). The high incidence IS in veterinary professionals,1 reported a paper summarised on page 271 this issue Vet Record , is not surprising. Vets achieving individuals, and, such, likely to possess traits IS. Given the recent attention dedicated mental health vets, well knowledge that correlated poor health, perfectionism, neuroticism, depression, anxiety and burnout, an investigation impact vets warranted. In attempt illustrate significance IS, particularly connection it helpful explore scenario commonly by graduates early ‘make break’ years practice – is, experience adverse event (AE). Examples such AEs include unexpected death patient developing life-threatening complications during routine procedure.2 A Sara White describes vets’ emotional following AE context neuter surgery coping strategies they employed.3 Vets’ initial fear, nausea desire run away, followed difficulty thinking clearly trouble sleeping. They also self-doubt, lack confidence intense responses guilt shame. For individuals experiencing impostor tendencies, their worst fear incompetent may be realised AE. Their amplified intensified, compounding pre-existing inadequacy. Due perfectionist linked IS,4 harsher critics themselves when …