Helping veterinary students manage stress during their transition to the workforce
Official title: Effects of embedded Acceptance and Commitment Training in DVM and RVT programs as students transition into the workforce
Funded at Kent State University · NIH-10980628 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a program called 'Unburdened' to help veterinary students manage stress from tough client interactions, making their transition into the workforce smoother and improving their mental health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kent State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kent, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $570,703 |
| NIH project number | 1R01OH012580-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10980628 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are advanced students enrolled in veterinary technician or doctor of veterinary medicine programs.
✕Less likely to help
Students in earlier stages of their veterinary education or those not enrolled in RVT or DVM programs may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a program called 'Unburdened' designed to help veterinary students cope with the stress of difficult client interactions as they prepare to enter the workforce. The program uses Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT) to reduce occupational distress, which is a significant issue in veterinary medicine. By embedding this intervention into the final semester coursework of veterinary technician (RVT) and doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) programs, the study aims to evaluate its effectiveness through online assessments at various intervals. The goal is to enhance student engagement and improve their overall mental health as they transition into their professional roles.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce stress and burnout among veterinary students, leading to healthier work environments in the veterinary field.
How similar studies have gone: Previous randomized trials have shown that similar ACT interventions effectively reduce stress and burnout in veterinary workers, indicating a promising approach for this population.
Where this research is happening
-
Kent State University
Kent, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Spitznagel, Mary Beth — Kent State University
- Study coordinator: Spitznagel, Mary Beth
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.