22/11/2025
💚 Veterinary Mental Health: It's Time We Talked About It 💚
It’s a shocking and heartbreaking statistic — veterinary surgeons are four times more likely to die by su***de than the national average. Data for the rest of the profession is sadly limited, but research is currently ongoing.
Behind every consultation, every farm visit, every late-night emergency, and every euthanasia, there’s a veterinary professional quietly carrying emotional weight that often goes unseen. Compassion fatigue, client expectations, financial strain, isolation, and perfectionism all take their toll, alongside numerous other factors including home life and other burdens. And while we’re trained to look after others, too many of us forget to look after ourselves.
But here’s the message we all need to hear:
🗣️ “There’s nothing selfish about prioritising your mental health — because others will suffer, not just you.”
In this powerful episode of Vet Voices On Air, James Russell and Danny Chambers open up about why they got involved in mental health advocacy and the work of the incredible charity Vetlife, who provide confidential mental health support to the veterinary profession every year.
They discuss the importance of speaking up early, breaking down stigma, and recognising that vulnerability isn’t weakness — it’s the first step toward healing.
🩵 If you’re struggling:
You are not alone. Help is available 24/7.
📞 Vetlife Helpline: 0303 040 2551
🌐 www.vetlife.org.uk
Whether you’re a vet, nurse, student, or practice team member — or you love someone who is — please take a few minutes to listen, share, and keep this conversation alive. 💬
🎧 Listen to the episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1sCApMhE8wPLZ1R8GmOVGM?si=amNHyKZ8QGe6XuEx8qFeyA
Because caring for animals starts with caring for ourselves. 🐾💚