09/09/2026
World Su***de Prevention Day — 10 September 2026
Today the world is asked to change the narrative on su***de. In our profession, that conversation is overdue.
Veterinarians in Australia are around four times more likely to die by su***de than the general population, and twice as likely as other health professionals. Sophie's Legacy — founded in memory of Dr Sophie Putland — puts it plainly: on average, a vet dies by su***de roughly every 12 weeks. That is a colleague, a classmate, a friend.
At Capital Veterinary Hospital, our mission has always been bigger than medicine: to deliver human-level care for animals, and to build a hospital where every person in this industry can honestly say they love their job. We are here to help change the narrative.
That is why we have built a psychosocially safe workplace — an environment where our team can raise concerns openly, without fear. We run a genuine open-door policy. We are a Platinum-recognised workplace under the ACT Government's Healthier Work program. And our culture runs on four pillars, in this order of priority:
1️⃣ Our colleague
2️⃣ Our patient
3️⃣ Our client
4️⃣ Our hospital
Our colleagues come first, because a supported team is what makes exceptional care possible. When we care for each other, we are better able to care for our patients, support their families, and sustain a hospital our community can rely on.
To our clients: thank you. Your patience, kindness and understanding protect our people every day, and your votes have helped us win local business awards year after year. You are part of this change.
Today, please check in on a colleague, friend, family member, or neighbour. A simple conversation can matter. You do not need to have all the answers—you just need to show that you care.
If you or someone else needs immediate support in Australia, contact Lifeline 13 11 14, Su***de Call Back Service 1300 659 467, or call 000 in an emergency.
