‘Beneath the Rainbow Bridge’ Looks at the Silent Struggles of Veterinary Professionals

Veterinarians face significant mental health challenges, with CDC research indicating they are two to four times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. The immense emotional burden of their profession, including euthanasia decisions and client pressures, contributes to high rates of depression, anxiety, and burnout.

Dr. Jeffrey Godbey, a beloved Tallahassee veterinarian, tragically took his life in 2019. His mother, Cynthia Godbey believes the pressures of the job deeply affected him, particularly the emotional toll of euthanasia requests. Reflecting on his passing, she wishes she had been more direct in addressing his struggles.

To honor her son, she founded the Jeffrey Bear Foundation, which promotes mental health awareness for veterinarians and supports veterinary students. The “Beneath the Rainbow Bridge” series explores these struggles and efforts to improve mental health resources for Veterinary professionals, emphasizing the need for awareness, open conversations, and support systems within the industry.