Lizzie Lockett, RCVS CEO and Mind Matters director.

Organisations to collaborate on projects to advocate positive behaviour

Three international veterinary organisations have adopted the RCVS Mind Matters initiative and the American Veterinary Medical Association’s (AVMA) joint statement on mental health and wellbeing. 


The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) have joined forces to promote improved mental health and signed the Statement, adopted by the RCVS and AVMA in July 2018.

The Statement prioritises positive mental health and wellbeing for veterinary surgeons, allied animal health care professionals and veterinary students as the first step to optimal animal and public health. It reads:


“We believe that for veterinary professionals to realise their full potential and the global veterinary profession to remain sustainable, maintaining high levels of mental health and wellbeing for all members of the veterinary team is a priority. Improving veterinary mental health and wellbeing has a positive impact on individuals, the profession at large and, ultimately, animal health and welfare, and public health.”

RCVS CEO and Mind Matters director Lizzie Lockett, said: “I am delighted that these three organisations are joining the RCVS and AVMA in promoting and supporting positive mental health amongst the veterinary community. 


“The global veterinary community faces diverse challenges but one common issue is ensuring that we care for and support our professionals so that they can, in turn, deliver high standards of care to animals and their owners […] I look forward to working with them towards this common aim.”


AVMA President Dr John Howe, adds: “Collaboration among these highly respected international veterinary organisations amplifies the message that sound mental health and wellbeing is the very first step to allowing our colleagues to provide for the health and welfare of animals and people.”


The organisations that have signed onto the Statement will collaborate on projects to advocate positive behaviour and support around mental health in the veterinary profession. This includes developing evidence-based programmes and sharing best practices around interventions.

Image (C) RCVS.