Risk Factors and Protection Associated with Well-Being and Psychological Distress of Veterinarians in Brazil

Veterinary professionals are exposed to intense emotional and occupational demands that can compromise mental health. This nationwide cross-sectional study surveyed 1992 Brazilian veterinarians to assess their psychological distress, well-being, and coping strategies. Logistic regression identified that women, early-career professionals, and individuals with low income were more likely to experience psychological distress. Long working hours and professional dissatisfaction were significant risk factors. In contrast, adaptive coping behaviors, such as spending time with the family, sleeping at least eight hours per night, and engaging in leisure activities, were associated with better mental health outcomes. Institutional wellness programs tailored to the veterinary profession should incorporate strategies to mitigate stress and promote resilience. Although the cross-sectional design limits causal inference, the large sample size and use of validated measures provide robust insights. Future research should adopt longitudinal and interventional designs to refine the strategies that support veterinarians' mental well-being.