The legal profession is one long stress test for many. It begins the day lawyer hopefuls start prepping for LSAT and continues well into the partnership years, when competition to woo and retain clients remains fierce. With depression, anxiety and alcoholism rates among attorneys higher than those of other professions, the mental challenges are taking their toll on the hardworking men and women who dedicate much of their lives to the law.
Slowly, however, law firms, schools and bar groups are helping wipe away some of the stigma in the profession and are making wellness programs, therapy, drug treatment and holistic approaches to healthier living more mainstream.
In this Instant Insights collection, we show you the current state of mental health problems among lawyers, how they can cope with stressors on the job and the challenges that lie ahead.