Building Better Days Together

September 2, 2026

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, an important reminder that support often starts long before someone reaches a crisis point. 

In veterinary medicine, well-being isn't built through a single program, training, or conversation. More often, it's shaped by the everyday moments that help people feel connected, valued, and supported at work. 

A teammate checking in after a challenging case. A manager recognizing someone's hard work. A colleague asking, "How are you doing?" and genuinely listening to the answer. 

These small moments may seem routine, but they can have a meaningful impact on workplace culture and overall wellbeing. 

As Not One More Vet notes in their resource Cultivating Belonging and Well-Being in Veterinary Workplaces:  

“All teams should work to provide a sense of belonging. That sense can help to promote emotional and operational resilience."  

Creating that sense of belonging doesn't require grand gestures. Often, it's built through consistent, everyday actions that show people they matter. 

What Support Can Look Like 

Support doesn't always mean having perfect words or solutions. It can mean creating an environment where people feel comfortable speaking up, asking questions, sharing concerns, and seeking help when needed. 

In veterinary practices, support can take many forms: 

• Celebrating accomplishments, both big and small 
• Encouraging team members to take breaks and recharge 
• Making time for connection during busy days 
• Offering flexibility when life becomes challenging 
• Creating space for honest conversations 
• Checking in with teammates after difficult cases 

 

These actions help build trust and remind team members that they don't have to carry challenges alone. 

The Role of Leaders 

Leaders play an important role in setting the tone for their teams. 

When managers prioritize well-being, encourage open communication, and model healthy habits themselves, they help create workplaces where people feel supported and respected. 

At Vetcor, our people leaders have access to tools, training, and resources designed to help them support their teams, foster strong workplace relationships, and navigate difficult conversations when they arise. 

Support Is Available 

While everyday support is important, professional resources matter too. 

Vetcor team members have access to benefits and well-being resources designed to support them throughout their careers. Team members can also connect with colleagues through communities such as VetLife, TechLife, and HMLife, creating opportunities to share experiences and learn from others who understand the unique rewards and challenges of veterinary medicine. 

Resources for the Veterinary Community 

Whether you're part of Team Vetcor or the broader veterinary profession, support is available. 

Not One More Vet (NOMV) 

Provides peer support, mental health education, and resources specifically for veterinary professionals. 

American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) 

Offers well-being tools, education, and resources for veterinary teams and leaders. 

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 

Call or text 988 anytime to confidentially connect with a trained counselor for free. 

A Challenge for This Month 

This September, consider one small action you can take to support someone around you. 

Send a message of encouragement. Thank a coworker. Check in with a friend. Reach out if you need support yourself. 

Small moments may seem insignificant, but together they help create stronger teams, healthier workplaces, and a more connected veterinary community.