Mental Health Support
Mental health issues are common in veterinary staff, and coping with the additional burden of chronic disease may make spoonies especially vulnerable.
​
The organisations below provide specific help for mental health issues, but if you're struggling it's also important to get support in your workplace, and to speak to your GP about local NHS services.
​
If you're looking for support and encouragement from others going through similar experiences, our closed Facebook group Veterinary Spoonholders UK can be a place to connect with other spoonies. Access to the group is not limited to UK-based veterinary workers so if you're reading this page from overseas, feel free to join too.
Vetlife
Vetlife provides emotional, financial and mental health support to the veterinary community. They have a 24-hour phone line for if you need support at any time; just call 0303 040 2551
These services are free to access for all veterinary staff.
The Samaritans
The Samaritans offer a free 24-hour phone line for anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide - just call 116 123 from any UK phone.
You can also email them, write them a letter, or speak to them in one of their branches.
Mind
Mind are a mental health charity who can help you find ways to get the support you need. The have an infoline - 0300 123 3393 - or you can also text, email or write to them.
​
They also provide legal information on the law around mental health, including employment issues - you can call them on 0300 466 6463 or contact via email or by writing to them.
Time To Change
Time To Change is a campaign to end the stigma around mental health issues. They have specific resources for employees and employers, including guidance around your rights at work, and avoiding or handling workplace discrimination.
Rethink Mental Health
