James Glass – Vetlife: Mental Health, Support & Suicide Prevention in the Veterinary Profession

In today’s episode, I’m joined by James Glass, a Vetlife trustee, who shares deep insights into the vital work Vetlife does alongside his personal experiences within the veterinary profession. Our conversation explores Vetlife’s core missions and organisation.

In the second half, we challenge the stigma around mental health. James and I discuss suicide within the profession in a practical, scientific, yet compassionate way, sharing valuable information that could help those in need or even save lives. We handle this with care, but I encourage anyone who may find this challenging to listen with discretion. Remember, support is always available, and I have included helpful links below.

Resources:

Vetlife:

 - information and help available https://www.vetlife.org.uk/how-we-can-help/

 - volunteering opportunities https://www.vetlife.org.uk/get-involved/

- support through financial giving or donations https://www.vetlife.org.uk/donate/

Mental Health First Aid 

 RCVS-MMI-MHFATraining

https://mhfaengland.org/individuals/adult/

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide:

https://uksobs.com/

Timestamps:

3'14" – Vetlife’s history and core missions

7'20" – The Helpline: how it works

12'40" – Health support services

17'35" – Financial support available

27'20" – 2024 campaign on Neurodiversity

30'50" – Why the Helpline’s popularity is increasing

35'20" – The “S” word: why open conversation matters

44'20" – Approaching someone you’re concerned about

48'50" – Factors contributing to higher suicide rates

59'20" – Suicide prevention and mental health awareness training

1:04:10" – Providing support after an attempt or during bereavement

1:07:40" – Volunteers, ambassadors, and fundraising efforts

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==