Veterinary school is one of the most demanding academic paths. The workload is heavy, exams pile up, and many students are balancing financial strain, long study hours, and emotional exhaustion.

Research consistently shows that veterinary students report higher rates of stress, anxiety, and depression compared to other university students. A study in the Journal of Veterinary Medical Education found that over 70% of vet students experience high stress — often linked to perfectionism, fear of failure, and heavy workloads.

While stress in vet school is inevitable, burnout doesn’t have to be. With the right strategies and support, you can protect your mental health and even enjoy the journey.

1. Reframe Perfectionism
Veterinary students often feel they must excel at everything and never make mistakes.

Mindset shift: Aim for progress, not perfection. 

Studies show that adopting a growth mindset — viewing mistakes as learning opportunities — reduces anxiety and improves performance.

2. Break Tasks Into Smaller Pieces
‍A never-ending to-do list can feel paralyzing. Cognitive psychology research shows that breaking tasks into short, focused sessions improves memory and lowers stress.

Try the Pomodoro method: 25 minutes of study → 5-minute break → repeat.

3. Prioritize Sleep and Recovery
‍Sleep deprivation is common among vet students, but it takes a heavy toll. Lack of rest impairs concentration, weakens emotional regulation, and increases stress.

Studies in medical education show that students who consistently get7–8 hours of sleep perform better and feel less burned out 
4. Build a Strong Support Network
‍Vet school can feel isolating, but peer and mentor support are crucial.Join or form a study group.Stay in touch with family and friends outside the vet bubble.

Seek expert support when things feel too heavy. At VETWELL, you can connect with professional therapists and coaches who understand the veterinary journey inside and out.
‍
Unlike general counseling, our experts specialise in supporting veterinary students and professionals, helping you manage stress, prevent burnout, and build resilience for the long term.

‍5. Move Your Body to Reset Your Mind

Exercise is one of the most effective tools for stress management. Just 20 minutes of activity a day — walking, running, yoga, or sports — triggers endorphins that calm your nervous system and sharpen focus.
‍6. Practice Emotional Self-Care
‍Suppressing emotions may seem like “staying strong,” but it often increases stress. Small practices can make a big difference:

- Write down your worries for 5 minutes daily.
- Use short guided mindfulness breaks between study blocks.
- Share openly with peers or mentors — you’re not alone.

The stress of vet school doesn’t vanish after graduation. The profession itself carries high demands — which is why learning resilience now is critical. Skills like time management, emotional regulation, and boundary setting are the same ones that will help you thrive in practice and avoid burnout later. 

Also working with a VETWELL therapist or coach can help you:

-Develop healthy study and work habits
- Build coping strategies that last into your career
- Protect your mental health while pursuing your goals