.png)
As a licensed therapist specializing in vegan mental health, I have seen firsthand the profound impact that our relationship with animals has on our mental well-being. I must confess that I too have been complicit in animal agriculture, which is something that weighs heavily on my conscience.
It was 2011 when I made the decision to take a job as an over-the-road long-haul commercial truck driver. At the time, it felt like the best way for me to disconnect from my former career as a middle school teacher, which had left me feeling burnt out and unfulfilled. Driving across the country seemed like a new adventure, a chance to explore different parts of the United States while getting paid to do so.
But as I spent hours on the open road, passing by fields and pastures, I couldn't help but feel a growing sense of guilt. I knew that the animals I was seeing were not living happy lives and that my choices were contributing to their suffering. The more I thought about it, the more I felt like a hypocrite for claiming to care about animal welfare while simultaneously participating in an industry that perpetuates their exploitation.
This realization was difficult to grapple with, and it took a toll on my mental health. I felt like I was living a double life, pretending to be one person during the day while grappling with a growing sense of unease at night. It wasn't until I began to address these feelings head-on and to take steps to align my actions with my beliefs, that I started to find some peace.
Today, as both a writer and a therapist, I am committed to helping others navigate the often-challenging terrain of animal rights and veganism. While the journey is never easy, and the road can be full of twists and turns, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of confronting our own complicity and taking action to create positive change.
To highlight these issues further, I recently had an opportunity to interview a former slaughterhouse worker... Meet "John," an anonymous interviewee who has worked in a slaughterhouse for the past five years. Throughout his time on the job, John has seen things that would make most people cringe. From the screams of terrified animals to the never-ending conveyor belts of death, his experiences have left a lasting impact on his mental health. In this interview, John bravely shares his story and sheds light on the hidden costs of our society's demand for meat:
Q: Tell us about your experiences working in a slaughterhouse?
A: It was a tough job. We were required to kill hundreds of animals a day, and the conditions were brutal. The smell of blood and death was always present. It was emotionally draining work.
Q: How did this work impact your mental health?
A: It had a profound impact on me. I began to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety. I had nightmares about the animals I had killed. I began to feel disconnected from my family and friends.
Q: What do you think contributes to the mental health issues experienced by slaughterhouse workers?
A: I think it's the constant exposure to violence and death. It wears on you over time. You begin to feel numb and disconnected. It's hard to explain, but it's like a part of your humanity dies with every animal you kill.
Q: How have you been since leaving the industry?
A: Thankfully, I have been working with a wonderful therapist who has helped me process these traumas. It is not over yet, but I feel like some days I can see a light of hope out there. My relationships have improved as well as my mental and physical health.
CBT and Somatic Techniques for Combatting Mental Health Issues
If you're experiencing mental health issues related to animal agriculture, there are several techniques you can use to combat these issues:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This is a type of therapy that focuses on identifying negative thought patterns and replacing them with more positive ones. For example, if you find yourself feeling guilty about not being able to save all animals, you can work on reframing this thought to focus on the positive impact you are making through your vegan choices.
Somatic Techniques: These techniques focus on the connection between the mind and body. Examples include deep breathing exercises, taichi, and meditation. These techniques can help you to feel more grounded and connected to your body, which can improve your overall sense of well-being.
Engaging in Vegan Activism: Sometimes, taking action can help to combat feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. Consider getting involved in local vegan activism, such as leafleting or organizing protests. This can give you a sense of purpose and help you to feel like you are making a difference.
Seek Professional Help: If you're struggling with mental health issues related to animal agriculture, it's important to seek professional help. A licensed therapist can help you to develop coping strategies and work through any underlying issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.
The connection between animal agriculture and mental health is complex and multifaceted. If you're struggling with mental health issues related to animal agriculture, it's important to remember that you're not alone. There are many techniques and resources available to help you manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being. By taking care of your mental health, you'll be better equipped to continue advocating for the animals and living a fulfilling life.