Mind Matters International

Mind Matters International was formed in 2018 by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).  

Mental health challenges don't respect borders. By working together, we achieve more than any one organisation could alone.  

Twelve organisations have committed to , representing veterinary professionals across multiple continents:

• American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges
• American Association of Veterinary State Boards
• Australasian Veterinary Boards Council
• Australian Veterinary Association
• British Veterinary Association
• Canadian Veterinary Medical Association
• European Federation of Companion Animal Veterinary Associations
• Federation of Veterinarians of Europe
• Veterinary Council of New Zealand
• Veterinary Medical Association Executives
• Veterinary Practice Board of Western Australia
• World Small Animal Veterinary Association

International collaboration

Our collaborative approach delivers three key benefits:

• Advocacy – joined-up voices carry further than individual calls for change
• Research – pooling resources maximises impact from limited funding
• Sharing of best practice – proven interventions spread faster, so organisations don't reinvent the wheel

We've already seen this work in practice. In March 2021, we held our first international roundtable examining COVID-19's impact on veterinary mental health. The session produced valuable research and insights that benefited all participants.

Want to get involved?

We welcome applications from organisations who want to support our work and help make a difference. We understand organisations move at different speeds, so there's flexibility in how you implement these principles. Read more about our international statement.

The main requirements are:

• Commit to improving mental health and wellbeing for all veterinary team members
• Participate in collaborative activities when possible
• Share with signatories an annual report on your mental health initiatives
• Share learnings and best practices with the group

Who can apply?

We welcome applications from national, multinational, or international veterinary organisations. This includes regulatory bodies, professional associations, and representative organisations.

What's the cost?

There is no fee to sign up. In the future there may be in-person meetings where participants would be expected to cover their own costs. There may be costs attached to joining particular projects or initiatives as these develop, for example, putting money into joint research projects, or sharing development costs for an app.

Ready to join us?

If your organisation wants to be part of this international movement, we'd like to hear from you.

Applications are reviewed by representatives from both the RCVS and AVMA. Complete our application form and we'll be in touch.

For questions about Mind Matters International, contact Lizzie Lockett, RCVS CEO, at [email protected].