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It's Okay to Talk and Ask for Help
March 18, 2025
Stigma does exist around asking for help. In our profession we are often expected to be strong, resilient, and self-sufficient. I have struggled with anxiety for decades and I’ll never forget the day 15 years ago when I opened up to my physician about it. That conversation was a turning point — it led to medication that truly helps me and taught me the difference between positive adaptive coping and maladaptive strategies, many of which I had been relying on, which weren’t serving me or those around me. Looking back, I wish I had reached out sooner before reaching a point of crisis. As caregivers, it’s easy to focus on others and neglect our own needs, taking that step to share what you’re going through can change everything. If you are struggling, don’t keep it inside — talk to someone early. Prioritizing your mental health is wisdom not a weakness. You deserve the same care and support you give to your patients and others in your professional and personal lives. You are wise to prioritize your mental health.
— Dr. Kathy Keil, CVMA Director of Wellness, DEI and Accessibility
Nearly 60 per cent of veterinarians say they would feel comfortable discussing mental health topics with other veterinarians. Consider Togetherall to connect to your veterinary peers in an anonymous, asynchronous way. Togetherall is an online/digital, anonymous, and closed role-based veterinary group exclusively for veterinarians and student veterinarians. It has 24/7/365 oversight by licensed mental health professionals for psychological safety. It also provides a wide range of educational resources including clinically validated mental health assessments (anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, and others) and self-paced courses (trauma in healthcare workers, PTSD, and more).
If you are having persistent negative thoughts, thoughts of suicide, or are in a crisis please call the Suicide Crisis Helpline at 988 or text 988 to talk with a crisis responder who will hear your story and help you without judgement. You can also call 911 or visit the nearest hospital.
Many provincial veterinary associations offer access to counsellors, career, and workplace support, financial guidance, and crisis support through their member assistance programs. Connect confidentially by visiting the CVMA Who Ya’ Gonna Call webpage.