Understanding and managing stress in the veterinary workplace
Well-organised, meaningful work and a good working environment are beneficial for our health and wellbeing. However, even for those who normally enjoy their work, most jobs can involve difficulties at times. If these difficulties are frequent or prolonged, they can make work stressful, which in turn can affect our wellbeing. Work-related stress is associated with poorer work performance, increased absenteeism, and greater staff turnover. The importance of tackling stress at work is clear.
About this guide
This guide provides advice to veterinary workplaces on evidence-based approaches to addressing work-related stress and supporting wellbeing. It considers how workplaces can organise and manage work to reduce stress risk, but also includes advice for individuals on things that can help to buffer the personal impact when difficulties at work occur. It is designed for everyone who has an interest in wellbeing in veterinary workplaces, particularly those in leadership roles or who have line-management responsibilities.
The guide begins with an explanation of the root causes of stress at work and why it is important to address it. It describes evidence-based approaches to managing work-related stress, with links to resources on applying these in practice.
The guide also provides advice on what to do if a colleague is experiencing stress or you have concerns about someone’s wellbeing. The final section includes specific guidance for those in leadership roles, including line managers, on supporting wellbeing at work.
The guide has been developed by Elinor O’Connor, Professor of Occupational Psychology at Alliance Manchester Business School, University of Manchester in partnership with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) Mind Matters Initiative.
Chapter
What is work stress?
In offering a sense of purpose and opportunities to make a difference, working in the veterinary sector can be personally and professionally fulfilling.
Why should work stress be addressed?
The most recent RCVS survey of the veterinary professions carried out in 2024 found that, of those surveyed, 91% of veterinary surgeons and 93% of veterinary nurses agreed that their work is stressful.
How can work stress be managed?
There are two broad approaches to managing work-related stress. Organisational interventions aim to change working arrangements to reduce or remove sources of stress, or to lessen their impact; examples include increasing staffing to address high workload or providing specialist training for those whose work involves contact with members of the public.
Having a conversation with a colleague about their wellbeing
If a colleague tells you that they are experiencing stress, or you suspect that they are, you might be unsure how to discuss it with them. You might be concerned about saying ‘the wrong thing’.
The role of leaders and line managers in supporting wellbeing at work
As a leader, you can make a valuable contribution to supporting psychological wellbeing in your workplace. You can help to create a workplace culture that recognises the importance of wellbeing.
References and resources
General help and support, additional toolkits for managers and other useful resources.