Alcohol-related stigma within the UK veterinary profession.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Veterinarians have poorer mental health and have higher levels of alcohol consumption compared to the general population. This study aimed to explore perceptions and experiences of problem drinking within the veterinary profession in the UK. METHODS: Online semi-structured interviews were completed with multidisciplined practising veterinarians in the UK. The data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Seventeen veterinarians were recruited. The participants were predominantly female (n = 15, 88%). Seven participants (41%) reported personal experience of problem drinking. Four main themes were identified a normalised culture of drinking, the impact of drinking on mental health and suicide risk, perceptions and attitudes towards problem drinking, and impacts of formal intervention. Drinking to cope was normalised and widespread among veterinarians. Problem drinking was reported to negatively impact mental health and provoke high self-stigma. Both alcohol-related stigma and fear of involvement from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) were barriers to help-seeking. LIMITATIONS: No other veterinary professionals or participants with lived experience of RCVS investigation for problem drinking were included. CONCLUSION: Alcohol-related stigma and fear of RCVS involvement reduce veterinary help-seeking for problem drinking, which may have a negative effect on veterinarians' mental health.