September Is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
As a pet hospital, we understand the seriousness and severity of mental health, especially in the veterinary field. We recognize our duty to speak out and promote suicide-prevention awareness by offering a variety of helpful resources and a safe, trusting environment.
In light of recent events, Dr. Cierra Cadena passed away by suicide on September 21st, 2026. Dr. Cadena recently graduated in May 2026 from Texas A&M University’s veterinary program, then began an internship with Equine Medical Center of Ocala in Florida. We want to bring awareness to Dr. Cadena, and our thoughts are with her family, friends, and colleagues. We recognize the veterinary hardships and want to spark uncomfortable conversations to bring more attention to mental health. Let Dr. Cadena’s memory and every other veterinarian who has been lost be a reminder to spread love and kindness and to take care of each other.
September is all about speaking up and coming together as a community to promote mental health advocacy through listening to survivors, those who have lost loved ones to suicide, and promoting resources and organizations. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Building support and spreading awareness about mental health and suicide prevention helps remind each other that we are not alone, and there is help available.
The non-profit organization Not One More Vet (NOMV) is dedicated to creating a safer and more well-rounded veterinary environment where veterinary professionals can survive and thrive through the help of community, resources, and education. The organization currently stands at around 40,000 veterinary professionals who all contribute to supporting each other by sharing their challenges and offering each other a support system.
It can be extremely difficult for veterinary professionals to detach themselves from cases and regulate their emotions. According to statistics, veterinarians in the United States are 3.9x more likely to die by suicide compared to the general population. In an AVMA survey in 2022, 49% of U.S. veterinarians reported high burnout levels, and 65% of veterinarians reported experiencing depression symptoms at least once in their career.
It is of great significance not just for those who work in the veterinary field, but for all individuals, to understand that help is available. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please text or call 988 immediately. The first step to preventing suicide is to have the difficult conversations and let your peers know you are available to help, or that you need assistance. With community support, we can create a safe and comfortable environment to navigate difficult times together.
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