Your mental health matters!
Animal control work is emotionally demanding, with exposure to neglect, abuse, and high-stress situations taking a serious toll over time. Ignoring the warning signs of compassion fatigue and burnout can lead to severe mental health struggles—getting help early isn’t a weakness, it’s a necessity. Taking care of your mental well-being ensures you can continue doing this vital work while also protecting yourself.
Resources to help those always saving others
Professional Mental Health Support
🔹 National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Free education, support groups, and resources for mental health.
🔹 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – 24/7 confidential support for anyone in distress (Call or Text 988).
🔹 SAMHSA’s National Helpline – (1-800-662-HELP) Free, confidential treatment and support for mental health and substance use.
🔹 ResponderStrong – Mental health resources tailored for first responders, including ACOs.
Compassion Fatigue & Burnout Support
🔹 International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants – Compassion Fatigue Resources – Training and information specific to animal professionals.
🔹 ASPCA’s Compassion Fatigue Toolkit – Guides, webinars, and self-assessment tools.
🔹 The Shelter Worker’s Guide to Self-Care – Strategies to prevent burnout in animal welfare work.
Peer support
🔹 First Responder Wellness – Specially designed mental health resources for those in high-stress public service roles.
🔹 Code Green Campaign – First responder mental health awareness and support.
Training and Self-Help Tools
🔹 Mental Health First Aid for First Responders – Training for recognizing and responding to mental health crises.
🔹 Blue H.E.L.P. – Mental health advocacy for law enforcement and animal control professionals.