Adapting the Reconnecting to Internal Sensations and Experiences Intervention for Veterinary Students

Abstract

Veterinary students and professionals are at elevated risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors compared to other high-risk occupational groups and the general population (Karaffa & Hancock, 2019; Nett et al., 2014; Schernhammer & Colditz, 2004; Skipper & Williams, 2012; Tomasi et al., 2019). Notably, veterinary students and professionals report stigmatizing attitudes about psychological treatment and several barriers to mental health care. The brief, online Reconnecting to Internal Sensations and Experiences (RISE) intervention (Smith et al., 2021, 2022, 2023) may be an accessible, effective treatment for improving interoceptive awareness, a transdiagnostic risk factor for psychopathology and suicide, among veterinary students and professionals. However, the feasibility and acceptability of the RISE intervention has not yet been examined in this population. Utilizing a mixed methods approach, we conducted a theater test of the RISE intervention to adapt the program for a new population of veterinary students consistent with the Administration phase of the ADAPT-ITT model (Wingood & DiClemente, 2008). Among our sample of 24 veterinary students, 15 (62.5%) completed the full intervention. Veterinary students reported that the RISE intervention was helpful, acceptable, effective for coping with veterinary and non-veterinary distress; was relevant to their veterinary training; and was not likely to be associated with negative side effects. Participants also recommended modifications to the RISE intervention for veterinary students. The results from the present study may be used to inform subsequent phases of the ADAPT-ITT model, with the ultimate goal of developing a brief, accessible intervention that improves interoception, psychological functioning, and suicide outcomes among veterinary students.