"I recently read a paper by Dr. Lea Baider and Dr. Simon Wein on the realities of medical professionals facing death regularly. The paper suggested that those who are successful in dealing with death at appropriate times do so by compartmentalizing the events of their day. The paper went on to say that if a doctor is to split the mechanics of the problem from the emotional side, they can continue to function without the emotions getting in the way. That is an excellent recommendation, but it is also important to choose an appropriate time to address those emotions. This would mean having a mentor or counselor I could visit regularly. Also, I find exercising, meditating, and listening to music helps me to address my emotions and relieve stress from my workday."

Think of how you can professionally cope with the reality of experiencing death and the grief of pet owners. Perhaps you have a partner or friend you can debrief with at the end of the day or colleagues or therapists you can talk to. You can also write your thoughts in a journal, exercise, or meditate. No matter what you do to cope with the reality of your job, the interviewers want to hear that you have ways to take care of your mental health.