Advice for Managing the Emotional Toll
Animal research often faces public misunderstanding and stigma, creating a cycle of scientific secrecy that intensifies stress for junior researchers. A 2021 study from Spain identified PhD students as particularly vulnerable, with them reporting the lowest professional quality of life among various animal-care roles.1 This group included technicians, welfare staff, veterinarians, and different types of researchers, focusing on their emotional responses to working with animals.
Nature consulted three scientists who shared insights from their experiences in animal research and caring for animals.
Connect with Like-Minded Individuals
Fernando González Hualquín, a postdoctoral researcher at the University Medical Center Mainz in Germany, emphasizes that many animal researchers encounter similar feelings, particularly in the early stages of their careers. Having worked with rats and chickens, he understands these challenges, affirming that your emotional reaction is valid.
You are not alone in feeling isolated. “The difficulty of discussing these feelings openly is a systemic issue,” notes Maria Laura Gutiérrez, a biologist at Argentina’s National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET). “Many research environments foster a culture of vulnerability surrounding animal testing, which can prevent researchers from seeking necessary support.”
The issue lies within the research culture rather than your emotional responses. González Hualquín stresses, “When students feel mocked for expressing their emotions about animal research, it reflects a deeper issue within the research environment.”
The Era of Animal Testing is Coming to an End. Where Will Science Go Next?
Ideally, you would express your feelings to your principal investigator (PI), though this isn’t always feasible. In a study by Gonzalez-Uarquin et al., about 25% of junior researchers handling animals in Germany reported poor communication with their supervisors.2 “Effective communication within research teams is crucial,” Gonzalez-Uruquin emphasizes, as otherwise, researchers may internalize their stress.
If talking to your PI isn’t an option, consider finding a mentor among your peers, suggests Heather Hirsch, a clinical psychologist and health coach based in Philadelphia. Hirsch conducts workshops aimed at early-career researchers involved in animal studies.
Additionally, actively seeking training opportunities can be beneficial. “Training in animal research significantly enhances communication, reduces stress, and builds confidence,” notes González Hualquín.
Prioritize Your Well-Being
During her workshops for professionals working with laboratory animals, Hirsch begins by addressing the concept of compassion fatigue, which arises from excessive exposure to animal suffering and pain, a common experience among medical professionals and scientific researchers.3
Compassion fatigue can manifest in physical, psychological, and behavioral changes including fatigue, anger, and headaches.4 To identify your personal baseline, Hirsch recommends utilizing the Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) Tools–quick, easily accessible surveys designed to aid self-assessment.
Self-assessment is helpful, but Hirsch emphasizes the importance of self-care in preventing compassion fatigue. “If you can’t take care of yourself, you can’t adequately care for animals,” she explains, highlighting that effective self-care is vital for sustaining a long-term career you cherish. “It’s crucial to view this as a marathon rather than a sprint.”
Common self-care practices include ensuring adequate sleep, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, fostering social connections, and engaging in spiritual or faith practices, as appropriate. Hirsch encourages taking time away from work to recharge, especially on days with heightened euthanasia responsibilities.
If access to mental health support is limited at your university, consider community resources or professionals who understand compassion fatigue. Health insurance plans or local public health agencies may also offer support.
Acknowledge Your Emotions
Source: www.nature.com