If you are concerned
about someone
Would you know what to look out for?
You may notice that someone:
- has lost interest in doing things they normally enjoy
- looks tearful
- seems to be feeling down or hopeless
- is struggling to cope with everyday things
- has slower speech and movements or is more fidgety and restless than usual
- looks tired or doesn’t have much energy
- does not want to talk to or be around people
- is using alcohol or drugs
- not replying to messages or being distant
- is overeating or has lost their appetite
What can I do?
Helping a depressed person
If you are concerned, talk to them about any problems then may be having.
You could suggest that they contact Vetlife.
In an emergency you should call for an ambulance on 999.
Mental health
We know that one in four people in the general population will experience a mental health problem each year. By 2030, it is estimated that there will be approximately two million more adults in the UK with mental health problems than there were in 2013.
Compared to the general population, there is evidence of elevated psychological distress in the veterinary profession with higher levels of:
• anxiety
• depressive symptoms
• suicidal thoughts
• suicide risk
This is true across almost all of the countries where research has been conducted.
“Vetlife are an essential part of my support system – not just for the financial help but because I know that they have always done all they can to support me and I have grown to trust them.”
Vetlife Financial Support Beneficiary
