Zoetis reports that a survey it conducted amongst veterinary surgeons has found that 91% report mental health issues relating to their work.

98 veterinary surgeons from around the UK took part in the survey.

The survey did not ask respondents to define what they considered to be a mental health issue.

However, 29% 'very much agreed', and 39% 'somewhat agreed' that 'my mental health impacts my work as a veterinarian'.

83% said the main factor behind mental health problems in the profession is general burnout, 80% said work intensity, 74% the lack of work/life balance, 49% being undervalued by clients, 40% being undervalued by management, 37% a lack of mental health support in practice, 30% financial concerns, and 26% said a lack of HR or structured management in practice. 

57% of vets said they know other vets with mental health issues.

64% said they believe there isn’t enough mental health support within the profession. 

97% say work-related mental health issues have negatively impacted their job satisfaction. 

78% said they would like to see more accessible content on mental health within the industry and 49% think the topic needs to be spoken about more. 

64% of vets said they would welcome counselling, 64% support with burnout recovery and 61% wanted training on coping tactics at university.

Stephanie Armstrong, Senior Vice President at Zoetis and Independent Council Member for The Royal Veterinary College said: “Having worked in the industry for many years, I know what an incredible profession it is, but unfortunately, I am also acutely aware of the heavy mental health load many vets face.

"The Zoetis Foundation continues to support VetLife and other initiatives aimed at caring for vets - our ambition is to work together with policy makers, industry leads and educators to offer new solutions and ensure the future prognosis of the profession is a healthy one.”

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