The first comprehensive study examining the mental health of optometrists in the United Kingdom has revealed a higher prevalence of mental health conditions compared to the general population. The study builds on pioneering research conducted Down Under, highlighting the global nature of mental health challenges facing the profession.

The comprehensive research, published in Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics,1 surveyed 1,303 qualified optometrists across the UK and found that 37% had moderate-to-severe psychological distress scores compared to 31% reported in an Australian study. The difference may reflect the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, as the Australian data was collected before the global health crisis. The UK findings also showed 28% screened positive for anxiety, while depression levels (24%) were broadly similar to those found in the general UK population. Perhaps most concerning, nearly one in three UK optometrists experiencing psychological distress had not accessed professional support.

The UK study revealed that 21% of optometrists had consulted healthcare professionals for mental health concerns in the past year, with 17% of the overall participants receiving treatment.

Lead author Neil Retallic, from the University of Bradford, said, “the study builds on the pioneering work conducted among Australian optometrists, offering a timely and valuable snapshot of how UK optometrists are feeling”.

YOUNG PRACTITIONERS AT GREATEST RISK

The research identified clear risk and protective factors that could shape future support initiatives. Younger optometrists emerged as particularly vulnerable, with 49% of those with five years or less experience reporting moderateto-severe psychological distress. Female optometrists also demonstrated poorer mental health scores across all three measures compared to their male colleagues.

“The study [also] reveals risk and protective factors that can help shape supportive future initiatives and guidance,” Mr Retallic noted. “Younger, early-career optometrists and those reporting poorer physical health were identified as being at higher risk, while those with advanced qualifications, such as Independent Prescribing, were associated with better mental health outcomes.”

INTERNATIONAL CONTEXT HIGHLIGHTS BROADER CHALLENGES

Mr Retallic’s study cited recent international studies that support these concerning trends. A 2023 survey of American Academy of Optometry fellows found 32% reported burnout, while separate research showed 54% of United States optometrists reported burnout symptoms, with females experiencing higher rates than males.

The mental health challenges extend beyond optometry, with healthcare workers generally experiencing burnout at rates between 35–50%, up to twice as high as non-healthcare professions.

CONSTRUCTIVE PATH FORWARD

Mr Retallic stressed the importance of acknowledging that optometrists, like the general population, are not immune to mental health challenges. “As a profession, we are well placed to identify early warning signs in colleagues who may be more vulnerable and to offer tailored support, especially if we have a better understanding of the relevant risk and protective factors.

“What I find particularly interesting, and this is echoed in the broader literature, is that the individual experiencing difficulties is often the last to recognise or accept there is a problem, even when others around them have already observed the signs.

“Perhaps most notably, the research reveals that around one in three (31%) optometrists experiencing psychological distress have not yet accessed professional support. This highlights a valuable opportunity to raise awareness and encourage access to mental health support,” he said.

INDUSTRY-WIDE SOLUTIONS REQUIRED

The research recommends several priority areas: greater awareness of mental health risk factors across the profession, clearer signposting to support services, normalising open dialogue about wellbeing within practice teams, and integrating mental wellbeing initiatives to foster positive workforce culture.

Additionally, it suggests that expanding access to professional development, role diversification, and structured career progression could offer protective benefits, particularly for earlycareer professionals where nearly half reported moderate-to-severe psychological distress.

“Looking ahead, we must continue to prioritise not only exceptional patient care but also the mental health and wellbeing of the professionals who deliver that care, ensuring a healthy and sustainable workforce,” Mr Retallic observed.

AUSTRALIAN INDUSTRY LEADING RESPONSE

Optometry Australia has been proactive in addressing escalating pressures facing practitioners. This year, the organisation partnered with MINDCHECK HP, a specialised Employee Assistance Program provider with specific experience supporting health professionals, offering all members up to three free confidential coaching and counselling sessions with experienced psychologists.

The organisation has also taken advocacy action, participating in the Australian Health Practitioner Agency’s (Ahpra) 2025 Mental Health Summit to address regulatory processes that can adversely impact practitioner mental health. Its broader strategic response includes hosting the Clear Minds, Bright Future symposium in 2024, the Optometry Leaders’ Summit in 2025, conducting a comprehensive Workforce Conditions Survey, and developing position statements on workplace conditions for clinical optometrists.

Beyond direct support services, Optometry Australia has developed a suite of tailored resources, including mental health webcasts, podcasts, and a mental health first aid course designed to help members recognise and appropriately support patients with mental health concerns. These are available at optometry.org.au/practice-professional-support/supporting-yourmental-health.

Skye Cappuccio, Optometry Australia CEO, said, “We’re deeply concerned by the growing evidence showing that optometrists, like many other health professionals, are facing significant mental health challenges. Burnout, stress, and professional fatigue are being felt across the profession – something we’ve seen reflected in nationally commissioned research and in ongoing conversations with members.

“Optometry Australia is committed to delivering immediate support and lasting, systemic change. Since launching our Member Assistance Program in 2022, many members have taken the opportunity to take some time to focus on themselves, kick start their mental health journey or focus on tailored self-improvement with the help of trained professionals. At the same time, initiatives like our Communities of Practice and Education (COPE) groups, advanced practice recognition programmes and extensive, high-quality CPD offerings are designed to promote role diversification and career progression – the types of protective factors identified in Retallic’s research.

“We continue to engage closely with regulators, stakeholders and members to address the deeper challenges facing our workforce. Supporting the wellbeing of optometrists remains our core priority, critical to building a well-supported, resilient, and future-ready profession.”

Reference

 1. Retallic N, Rountree L, Elliott DB, et al. Elevated levels of mental health issues among optometrists in the United Kingdom. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt. 2025 Jul 17. doi: 10.1111/opo.13553