The American Bar Association reports the main cause of stress in the legal field is the pressure to perform to an extremely high standard at all times as well as, strict deadlines, long working hours, demands from clients, colleagues and the court system. This makes working in the legal industry the most stressful occupation in the US, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor stats.
We recently reported on UK Lawyers facing similar levels of stress as their US counterparts with as many as many as 37% of lawyers considering leaving their profession due to their mental health.
The most stressful occupation in the U.S.
Forbes reports a study conducted with over 13,000 lawyers nationwide which highlights the substantial mental health issues faced by lawyers.
They found that 28% of lawyers experienced depression, 19% had anxiety, 21% had alcohol problems and 11% struggled with drug use at one time during their career.
Lawyers experience elevated levels of stress and loneliness as well as contemplate suicide at double to triple the rate of the general population.
The culture in the legal industry is one which does not leave room for discussions of mental health and taking the time to take care of yourself. This has had detrimental effects leading to more significant mental health issues as well as burnout and fatigue. Through taking care of your own mental health throughout your career and day-to-day life you can prevent burnout and live happier.
How Law firms can encourage health and wellbeing
Law firms will benefit from having staff who take care of their mental health, this can lead to more productive work hours, reduced staff turnover and lawyers who are more inspired and ambitious to get top results.
To do this, law firms should set in place methods to help their staff and encourage mental wellbeing, At the beginning of 2024 the international bar association reported that approximately 3 quarters of law firms have initiatives in place to support mental health. Despite this there was a 24% increase of people contacting LawCare, a charity for legal professionals seeking help.
So, does this mean the initiatives are not working or that the culture in the legal industry will take more time to adapt?
The lack of ‘belonging’ was a key issue for legal professionals, showing appreciation could help staff well being making them feel their value. Celebrating the wins of all the staff and giving opportunities for development within their career. Additionally, allowing time for lawyers to discuss their personal lives and create personal friendships within the workplace can elevate morale.
Other tips for law firms to encourage mental being include;
- Rotating the weekend and emergency out of hours staff. This allows lawyers to enjoy their personal lives and not have to be tethered to their phone.
- Being clear about assignments, priorities, deadlines and updates.
- Keep all staff members informed of updates and changes to their work.
- Hold thought out meetings which encourage effective work.