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The life of a rural veterinarian is often portrayed as idyllic – roaming the countryside, caring for animals, and making a real difference in the community. But behind the scenes, many Kiwi vets are facing a silent crisis: mounting mental health pressures. Long hours, emotionally draining cases, financial strain, and the constant responsibility for animal welfare are taking a toll.

For vets like Dave Morrell, who operates in the remote King Country region, the challenges are particularly acute. “You’re often the first point of call for farmers in distress, whether it’s a sick animal, a difficult birth, or even a biosecurity threat,” Dave explains. “The pressure to get it right, to save the animal, and to support the farmer can be immense. And you’re often doing it with limited resources and a lot of isolation.”

The industry is finally starting to acknowledge the scale of the problem. Recent surveys have revealed alarmingly high rates of burnout, anxiety, and depression among New Zealand vets. The demanding nature of the job, coupled with a culture that often discourages seeking help, has created a perfect storm.

A New Support System for Our Vets

Thankfully, there's a growing movement to provide better support for these essential workers. A newly launched initiative, spearheaded by the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) and supported by rural health providers, aims to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and provide accessible resources for vets and their families.

What does the support system offer?

• Confidential Counselling Services: Vets can access free and confidential counselling sessions with trained professionals, both in person and online.
• Peer Support Networks: Connecting with colleagues who understand the unique challenges of the profession can be incredibly valuable. The initiative facilitates peer support groups across the country.
• Workshops and Training: Workshops focusing on stress management, resilience, and self-care are being offered to vets and their teams.
• Financial Wellbeing Resources: Recognizing that financial stress can exacerbate mental health issues, resources and advice on managing finances are also available.
• Rural Outreach Programs: Bringing support directly to rural communities through mobile clinics and outreach programs ensures that vets in remote areas can access the help they need.

“This is a vital step in ensuring the wellbeing of our veterinary workforce,” says Dr. Sarah Johnston, President of the NZVA. “We want to create a culture where vets feel comfortable seeking help without fear of judgement. Their health and wellbeing are essential for the continued health and wellbeing of our animals and our rural communities.”

How can you help?

• Spread the word: Share this article and raise awareness about the mental health challenges facing vets.
• Support rural communities: Recognize the vital role vets play in rural areas and offer your support.
• Check in on your local vet: A simple conversation can make a big difference.

The future of veterinary care in New Zealand depends on ensuring the wellbeing of our vets. By providing them with the support they need, we can help them continue to provide the essential services that our rural communities rely on.