Depression, anxiety and stress can lead to suicide and these conditions are likely to affect every single one of us, one way or another, at some point in our lives.


Reports reveal that 1 in 6 of us will suffer but note that the figures do not include those who never seek help - men in particular. This means that if not afflicted ourselves, we are more-than-likely to know others whose lives are blighted by mental illness.

The above figures are true for members of the general population. Vets however are TWICE as likely to suffer from depression, anxiety and stress with 1 in 4 reporting suicidal thoughts and a shocking 2 in 3 vets being classified as “at risk” drinkers!

As a consequence, vets are 3-4 times more likely to actually commit suicide compared to the general population; this figure is twice as high as for doctors, with vets citing work intensity, duration of working hours and feeling undervalued by senior staff/management as the most common problems.

It’s a pitiful state of affairs and one reason why one of the three streams at this years SPVS/VPMA Congress was devoted to the subject of wellbeing. I was there and delighted to benefit from the wise words of Dr Max Pemberton, Consultant Psychiatrist, a personable speaker who gave an interesting, informative and engaging presentation on the subject of mental illness. It is him I have to thank for the facts, figures and excellent advice presented in this blog.

It’s great to see that people are finally tackling ‘the elephant in the room’ though it’s clear that much more needs to be done in recognising, understanding and addressing mental illness within the profession if the statistics (depressing in themselves!) are to improve. Max’s presentation within the wellbeing stream (well done VPMA & SPVS!) and the great work done by vetlife are a good start though..…

I could produce “War and Peace” on Max’s content but wish to share the practical part of his presentation that (for me) was the highlight. Max busted 5 myths about suicide which I think are worth sharing if we are to be able to put ourselves in a better position in helping those around us who may be thinking the unthinkable:

1. People who talk about suicide won’t really do it.
False: 2/3 of people tell someone. So get your ‘listening ears’ on and tune into those who describe feelings such as hopelessness.

2. You must be crazy to try to kill yourself.
False: Most people are simply upset, depressed or despairing

3. Nothing will stop a person determined to kill themselves.
False: Most suicidal people simply want the pain to stop and their feelings are transitory.

4. People who commit suicide are unwilling to seek help.
False: My recent personal experience tells me this is not true - often the help that is required is not available at the time it is most needed.

5. Talking about suicide may give someone the idea to do it.
False: The opposite is true.

The best advice is simply to listen and talk when friends/colleagues tell you they're unhappy, especially if describing feelings of hopelessness or despair. Even if you struggle to understand how they’re feeling or why, respect them and their emotions, demonstrate empathy and be patient. Mental illness is a common problem - all too common in the veterinary profession - and the time has come for us all to improve in our recognition and handling of this issue.

Remember too that next time it might just be you needing someone to talk too…....
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