Not one more vet
Content warning: Please note the following blog mentions suicide. Please be mindful if this is a difficult topic for you.
The veterinary profession is often viewed through a lens of compassion, dedication, and a deep love for animals. Yet behind the scenes, many veterinarians face immense mental and emotional challenges that go unnoticed. The Not One More Vet (NOMV) movement emerged to confront a harsh reality—veterinarians are disproportionately affected by mental health struggles, with suicide rates four times higher than the general population. One tragic story that shook the veterinary community and became the catalyst for the NOMV movement was that of Dr Sophia Yin.
Dr Sophia Yin was a well-known and respected veterinarian, celebrated for her groundbreaking work in animal behaviour and positive reinforcement training. Her passion for helping animals, combined with her extensive knowledge, made her a beloved figure in the field. She authored several books and was known for her ability to translate complex animal behaviour concepts into practical, compassionate methods for pet owners and veterinary professionals. Dr Yin seemed to have it all—a successful career, a strong reputation, and a bright future ahead.
Yet behind the facade of success, Dr Yin was quietly struggling with her mental health. The pressures of perfectionism, long working hours, and the emotional toll of the profession weighed heavily on her. The veterinary field is often marked by the emotional strain of dealing with sick animals, performing euthanasia, and navigating the financial stresses of running a practice. These factors can lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, and a deep sense of isolation, all of which Dr Yin experienced in silence. On this day in 2014, to the shock of those who knew her, Dr Yin took her own life.
Her death sent ripples through the veterinary world, forcing a hard look at the mental health crisis plaguing the profession. Veterinarians, like Dr Yin, who outwardly appear to be thriving, often hide their internal struggles due to stigma or fear of judgement. The loss of such a vibrant, successful individual became a wake-up call. The Not One More Vet movement was born out of the grief and recognition that no more veterinarians should have to suffer in silence.
NOMV is not just about raising awareness but about creating real change. It provides veterinarians with peer support, access to mental health resources, and a space where they can share their struggles openly. The movement challenges the culture of stoicism and perfectionism in the field, encouraging veterinarians to prioritise their well-being as much as they care for their patients. By fostering community, NOMV helps to reduce feelings of isolation and reminds veterinarians that they are not alone in their struggles.
As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the importance of resilience. Resilience isn’t about enduring pain in silence or pushing through at the expense of one’s health. It’s about recognizing when you need help and reaching out for it. Dr Sophia Yin’s story is a powerful reminder of this. Her death, though heartbreaking, has sparked a movement dedicated to ensuring no more veterinarians are lost to suicide.
For those entering the veterinary profession or any high-stress career, the lessons from NOMV are invaluable. Building resilience means taking care of your mental health early, recognizing your limits, and knowing that seeking support is not a sign of weakness but of strength. Resilience is built on self-compassion, and NOMV’s mission is to remind veterinarians that their own well-being matters just as much as the animals they care for.
Follow this link for more information on getting support and follow this link to find out more about Mental Health Awareness Month. For urgent support please contact Lifeline 13 11 14.