Occupational Stressors, Working Conditions and Self-Reported Mental Health Among Veterinarians in Germany: An Exploratory Cross-Sectional Survey.

Background/

Objectives

Veterinarians are exposed to substantial psychological strain, including burnout, depressive symptoms, and increased suicide risk. Emotional and ethical challenges, such as managing animal suffering, making difficult treatment decisions, and handling conflicts with animal owners, may compound the pressures associated with demanding working conditions. This study aimed to investigate occupational stressors, working conditions, job satisfaction, and self-reported mental health among veterinarians working in Germany.

Methods

An exploratory, quantitative, cross-sectional online survey was conducted among veterinarians working in Germany between August and October 2025. A total of 126 veterinarians completed the questionnaire. Associations between demographic and professional characteristics, working conditions, occupational stressors, and self-reported mental health indicators were analyzed using Pearson's chi-square tests, Mann-Whitney U tests and Kruskal-Wallis tests.

Results

The greatest perceived occupational stress was associated with work-life balance and working hours (mean ± SD: 3.67 ± 1.14), followed by the management of complex medical cases and communication with animal owners. Younger veterinary respondents reported greater stress related to selection of treatment options, whereas older and more experienced veterinary respondents reported greater stress related to administrative workload. Women reported higher stress levels across several domains, including communication with animal owners and the management of difficult medical cases. Veterinarians working more than 40 h per week reported lower satisfaction with work-life balance, while those with more than 28 days of annual leave reported greater workplace comfort. Self-reported stress-related symptoms were frequently indicated in the symptom checklist: 63.5% reported sleep disturbances, 31.7% burnout symptoms, and 26.2% anxiety. Only 19.0% had sought psychological help for work-related stress, and workplace psychological support was available and used by only 3.2% of respondents.

Conclusions

The exploratory findings indicate substantial perceived work-related, emotional, and ethical burdens among veterinarians working in Germany. Improved working-time arrangements, administrative support, accessible psychological support, and broader organizational measures may help protect veterinarians' well-being and long-term job satisfaction.