Research Forward Podcast | Alison Hopkins

Episode 8 Alison Hopkins

Research Forward

January 23, 2025

01:08:21

Mental Health in Animal Care: From Compassion Fatigue to Self-Care Strategies

0:00

IN THIS EPISODE

In this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Alison Hopkins, a qualified registered animal technologist, to discuss the often overlooked but crucial topic of mental health in animal care professionals. Alison shares her journey from working in accounting to becoming an animal technologist, highlighting the emotional demands and challenges of the profession, including compassion fatigue.

They delve into the lack of support and awareness surrounding mental health in the industry and the profound impact that caring for research animals can have on individuals. Alison offers insights into her personal experiences, the importance of self-care, and the tools she used, such as the Wheel of Life, to manage her well-being.

The conversation also covers the role of institutions in creating supportive work environments, the significance of mental health first aiders, and the need for open communication about emotional challenges. Alison emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing compassion fatigue to ensure the well-being of both animal care professionals and the animals they care for.

Listeners will gain valuable advice on managing emotional challenges in the field and the importance of fostering a compassionate and supportive workplace culture.

About Alison Hopkins

Alison Hopkins is a certified Registered Animal Technologist with the Institute of Animal Technology (IAT). She currently serves as the European sales director for a-tune Software. Hopkins started her career as an animal technologist in 2001, following her role as an accounts assistant at a pharmaceutical company. Her interest in changing careers was sparked by learning about outsourcing in the industry. While working at an animal facility, she obtained her IAT qualifications and a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and Management with honors. In this position, Hopkins worked with various animals, such as dogs, mini pigs, rabbits, and guinea pigs, focusing on therapeutic areas, animal health studies, and toxicology.

Her studies in animal science and management made her aware of her compassion fatigue, prompting a personal journey to explore her career path and self-awareness. Six years later, she became a certified NLP trainer. Eventually, Hopkins moved away from the biomedical research sector and shifted to selling animal management software. Besides her professional life, Hopkins is a mother of two, married to a musician, and the caretaker of a Beagle and a cat. She is also a certified life coach and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) master trainer.

RETURN TO RESEARCH FORWARD PODCAST HOMEPAGE →