Mental Health and Mental Illness in the Legal Profession-Post-Pandemic Shift in Perspective

The legal profession has long been associated with high levels of stress, burnout, and substance abuse. Historically, mental health and mental illness have been taboo subjects in the legal profession. 

A significant shift in perspective has occurred, at least when it comes to talking about mental health. There is a distinction between mental health and mental illness. Mental health encompasses our overall emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Conversely, mental illness refers to diagnosable conditions that disrupt thoughts, moods, and behaviors. The pandemic has fostered a more open dialogue around mental health, dismantling the stigma associated with it. As a result, I believe lawyers are more comfortable seeking support. It's important to understand that experiencing poor mental health doesn't necessarily equate to a mental illness, and vice versa. Both situations may warrant professional assistance. The proactive pursuit of mental health support is becoming increasingly normalized, with a focus on prevention and overall well-being.

Here are several ways that the pandemic has changed mental health care:

• Increased recognition of mental health as integral to overall health: The pandemic highlighted the strong connection between mental and physical well-being, leading to greater acceptance of seeking professional help for mental health issues.
• The pandemic exacerbated existing mental health challenges, with approximately one-third of American adults experiencing anxiety or depression since 2020. This widespread emotional distress underscored the critical link between mental and physical health. There is now a growing recognition that mental health is as essential to overall well-being as physical health, requiring equal attention and professional care when necessary.
• Expanded access to mental health services: Telehealth has made therapy more accessible and convenient, addressing the previous shortage of therapists and reducing barriers to care. There is more opportunity to speak up and change therapists if you have a session and someone is not exactly a right fit. In the pre-covid system, there were less options to be paired with someone new if an initial session with a mental health professional was not a match.
• Mental health challenges among young people were already alarming before the pandemic. Suicide rates are up, and millions of young people are grappling with anxiety and depression. The pandemic exacerbated this crisis, prompting a declaration of emergency by leading medical organizations. With half of all mental illnesses beginning by age 14, the need for more support and resources is vital. The increased screen time associated with the pandemic raised concerns about its impact on young people's mental health. While social media can be a valuable tool for connection and support, it can also contribute to feelings of isolation, bullying, and negative self-image. These are feelings affecting all age groups and screen time is an important issue for adults as well as young folks.

Lawyers struggle with mental health issues and mental illness at far higher rates than the average population and other professions. While the pandemic exacerbated these issues, it also catalyzed a much-needed shift in perspective. The increased awareness of mental health as a critical component of overall well-being has led to greater openness and a reduction in stigma. Moreover, advancements in technology, such as telehealth, have expanded access to mental health services. Ultimately, prioritizing mental health is not only beneficial for individual lawyers but also enhances the profession's overall effectiveness and reputation. 

If you are struggling with your own mental health, reach out for help from a mental health professional or contact the Lawyers Assistance Program. The LAP can help lawyers figure out what is not working in their lives and provide guidance and support to get on track. They can also refer you to appropriate therapists and counselors or any other kind of health care professional to assist with whatever you’re dealing with. And it’s completely confidential.