I have a surprising piece of advice that I always offer to veterinary students and new graduates. It surprises people because it doesn’t have anything to do with finding the right job, negotiating a contract, practicing medicine, or dealing with angry clients. Even though it’s a bit untraditional, I think it’s just as valuable (and maybe even more so) than the advice we typically give our mentees.
Here it is:
Find a hobby.
Ideally, one that has nothing to do with animals or veterinary medicine.
Walking your dog doesn’t count. That’s still looking at a dog. Horseback riding? Great hobby, but it puts you around a lot of people who may pepper you with vet questions the whole time. You need something that you will still enjoy on the days when you feel like you might scream or cry if you have to look at another animal.
I strongly believe that engaging in hobbies outside of work can help prevent burnout, boost resilience, improve your health, unlock creativity, and help you build community. These things are especially important in a profession where up to 80% of veterinarians are estimated to experience clinical depression at some point.
Mental Health Benefits
Regular hobbies reduce stress, increase feelings of well-being, and improve mental health. These benefits are real: both emotionally and physically. People who engage in creative hobbies like art, writing, or dance often report improved mood, lower blood pressure, and reduced cortisol levels.
The best part? You don’t have to be good at it. You can sing off-key, draw badly, or write just for yourself. You’ll still get the same mental health benefits as someone who does it professionally.
For me, a hobby became a lifeline because it reminded me that I am more than just a veterinarian. Like a lot of DVMs, after graduation I became “Katie the Veterinarian.” I was proud of that title. I had worked so hard to earn it, and it felt like the centerpiece of who I was.
But I didn’t anticipate what would happen when work got hard. What would happen when I had a terrible shift or started questioning my career?
The first time I struggled seriously at work, I had a mental health crisis. Because if “Katie the Veterinarian” wasn’t a good vet, then who was I? That experience showed me how important it is to have a sense of identity outside of your job. If you can spread your identity across multiple parts of your life, you’ll be more resilient when one area gets rocky.
Physical and Social Benefits
As I mentioned above, people who engage in hobbies often have lower cortisol, steadier heart rates, and healthier blood pressure. That’s no small thing. Chronic stress takes a serious toll on your health, especially for women.
Some hobbies are naturally active, which adds even more benefits. Going to a gym class, taking hikes, starting martial arts, or joining a dance group not only improves your physical health, but also gives you a space to unplug and recharge.
Hobbies also offer opportunities to build friendships outside of the workplace. I love my vet school and work friends, but sometimes you just want to hang out with people who won’t talk about work. It’s healthy to have relationships that aren’t centered around your job. You get to explore new conversations, perspectives, and experiences—and maybe even new parts of yourself.
Getting Started: Hobbies You Can Try
If you’re not sure who you are outside of veterinary medicine, you’re not alone. A lot of DVMs, techs, and support staff struggle with this. When your whole identity has been built around being “the animal person,” it can be hard to see beyond that.
You don’t need to overhaul your life. Start small and follow your natural interests. If you like nature, maybe try hiking or camping. If you enjoy movement and structure, look into group fitness classes or martial arts. I strongly encourage trying something active and social to get the biggest benefit.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (my personal favorite) or another martial art
- A group fitness class like yoga, pilates, spin, or bootcamp
- Line dancing, ballroom dancing, or a salsa class
- A walking, hiking, or running group
- Gardening at home or with a local community group
- Church, volunteer programs, or spiritual study groups
- Local classes and programs through your library or parks department
Try One This Week
The hardest part is getting started. I know it feels like there’s never enough time, and maybe you’re already exhausted. But carving out even a little time for something just for you can be one of the most protective and healing things you do.
So here’s my challenge to you: Pick one hobby to try this week. Sign up for that yoga class. Go to the local plant shop. Pull out that sketchbook. It doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be yours.
And if you already have a hobby that brings you joy, I’d love to hear about it. Share it with me or tag me on social media—your story might inspire someone else to take that first step too.