Lifeboat by NOMV is not a mental health intervention, but rather a peer support space to discuss mental health and wellness issues. Peer-based approaches to mental health care and recovery are growing and are evidenced as effective ways to help those in crisis feel understood and supported.

Our veterinary profession volunteers are sorted into groups called Peer Companion Pods. The pods are generally composed of three companions  and a peer seeking support, matched by having similar roles in the workplace, i.e., veterinarian or support staff. As the program develops, we may develop a more diverse set of Peer Companion Pods based on experience or specific peer needs.

These Peer Companion Pods are comprised of trained volunteers that offer support to veterinary professionals in need.

Interactions are anonymous. We made this decision deliberately to facilitate a sense of safety. We want people to feel they can share what is bothering them without fear of repercussions. With this anonymity, Lifeboat volunteers cannot invoke non-consensual active rescue (i.e. calling emergency services without the permission or consent of the peer). They can, however, recommend resources that may be appropriate for providing additional support including invoking active rescue with the consent and disclosure of the peer.

The intention behind the Peer Companion Pod (PCP) model is to allow a group of peer companions to support each other’s work with a peer. The team approach empowers the pack to identify who has the most bandwidth during a given day or week to respond to peers. It also creates a sense of continuity and belonging for the peer who has a team of companions who are aware of their struggle and are there for peer support. This approach also ensures the emotional responsibility  of helping never falls on one volunteer companion’s shoulders. It also helps companions keep each other accountable for maintaining healthy boundaries and essential self-care- one of the most powerful ingredients for effectively helping those in distress. The “PCP” is where reciprocal accountability between and among members of the Pod happens. This is the bread and butter of building a healthy and resilient Lifeboat Community. 

Although there are many benefits to seeking counseling from a mental health professional, not all individuals experiencing distress feel comfortable doing so. We hope that by connecting on Lifeboat, with other veterinary professionals who have had successful mental health treatment experiences, peers will feel empowered to assess their mental health needs and get the “know-how” to develop excellent mental health care strategies for themselves in their own local community. Lifeboat can also be a great daily addition to a mental health plan that is already in place for a peer.