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Breaking the Silence: Men's Mental Health in the UK Veterinary Industry

In recent years, mental health awareness has gained traction across many sectors — yet one group often remains in the shadows: men in the veterinary profession. As an industry long associated with high stress, emotional exhaustion, and a strong sense of duty, veterinary professionals are particularly vulnerable to mental health struggles. And for men, societal expectations and stigma often compound the problem, leading to a dangerous silence.

The Hidden Strain on Male Vets

Veterinary medicine is both rewarding and relentless. Long hours, emotionally intense cases, financial pressures, and client expectations can take their toll — and UK research continues to show the profession has a higher-than-average risk for psychological distress. According to data from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), men account for a smaller portion of the workforce (around 43%), but that doesn’t mean their mental health is less affected.

In fact, studies have highlighted that male vets in the UK are at increased risk of suicide compared to the general male population. The Samaritans’ research shows that men are less likely to reach out for help, with cultural norms often discouraging vulnerability and emotional expression.

Why Aren’t Men Talking About It?

There are many reasons men in the profession may stay silent:

Stigma around appearing weak: In a field that often values resilience, admitting to burnout or depression may feel like failure.

Lack of tailored support: Many mental health initiatives aren’t specifically designed with men’s experiences in mind.

Fear of professional consequences: Some worry that speaking up could affect how colleagues or employers perceive them.

This silence can be deadly — and breaking it is crucial for the health and future of the profession.

Creating a Healthier Culture for Men in Vet Med

To address the issue, the veterinary community must foster a culture that encourages openness and support for everyone — regardless of gender. Here’s how we can begin:

1. Normalising Conversations Around Mental Health

Male role models and leaders in the industry speaking openly about their experiences can have a powerful ripple effect. Campaigns like #VetKind and Mind Matters Initiative are already making strides, but men’s voices must be amplified within them.

2. Providing Gender-Inclusive Mental Health Resources

Employers and industry bodies should ensure mental health training and resources consider the different ways men may experience or express distress — including anger, irritability, or withdrawal, which can often go unrecognised.

3. Peer Support Networks

Creating peer-led spaces where male vets can share without fear of judgment can be a vital outlet. Whether through informal meet-ups, WhatsApp groups, or structured programmes, connection is key.

4. Tackling Toxic Masculinity

We need to dismantle the idea that asking for help is unmanly. Encouraging compassion over competition and vulnerability over stoicism should be a priority — in vet school, in practice, and beyond.

Where to Find Support

If you or someone you know is struggling, there are confidential services available:

Vetlife – 24/7 helpline and support specifically for the veterinary community: vetlife.org.uk

Samaritans – Free support for anyone in emotional distress: 116 123 or samaritans.org

BACP Counsellor Directory – Find a qualified therapist in your area: bacp.co.uk

In Summary

Mental health isn’t a gendered issue — but the way we experience and talk about it often is. For men in the UK veterinary industry, it’s time to challenge the silence, support one another, and build a profession where asking for help is seen as a strength, not a weakness.

Let’s keep the conversation going. For yourself. For your colleagues. For the future of veterinary medicine.

Sources / Further Reading

Visit our Veterinary Wellbeing Hub for more resources and support:

Veterinary Wellbeing Hub