Managing the demands of work and personal life can leave us feeling drained, alone or overwhelmed. Stress often leads to physical and mental symptoms that affect not just our own health, but also our relationships with family and friends. Additionally, these pressures can exacerbate challenges related to addiction and mental health, compounding the difficulties we face in maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life.
Taking steps to prioritize our mental well-being may seem challenging, especially for legal professionals who may be unsure of where to start, how to seek support and how to overcome fear of stigma. Psychotherapist and former lawyer Erin Peters understands the unique challenges lawyers may face. She suggests reframing how we look at and approach improving our mental health.
“As a society, we often treat mental health when in crisis, rather than as part of everyday life. There persists a lack of ongoing open conversations about mental health, which contributes to our reluctance and concerns of stigma when someone may struggle with anxiety or other issues. This reluctance is natural, understandable and very common when you may be wondering about your own mental health.” says Peters.
To create a healthier mindset, Peters says it’s essential to challenge outdated perceptions and take proactive steps toward prioritizing your well-being.
“Lawyers are used to being the ones who solve problems, so it can be uncomfortable for them to seek help. It’s crucial to remind yourself why you want to make changes. When you hesitate, tap into your motivation for change. I encourage lawyers to always remember their own reasons for seeking change.”
Here are some suggestions to help reframe your approach to mental health:
- Broaden your view: It's important to see mental health as part of your overall well-being. Instead of tackling everything at once, start by focusing on small priorities or the most immediate concerns.
- Begin with the basics: Focus on fundamental habits first: eat balanced meals, prioritize getting enough sleep, incorporate physical activity into your daily routine and cultivate a strong social support network.
- Seek trusted referrals: Don’t hesitate to reach out to family, friends, colleagues, or your general practitioner for recommendations on mental health resources or professionals. Trusted sources can guide you to helpful support.
- Be patient with yourself: Track your habits, moods and progress, no matter how small. Remember, it's a gradual process, not a quick fix, and every small step truly counts.
By taking small steps to prioritize your mental well-being, you can help reduce the stigma around mental health. As you make these changes, you'll improve your own health while cultivating a more open and supportive environment for others.
For mental health resources, visit our
Lawyer Well-Being Hub, which offers confidential support and free counseling for lawyers, their families, and articled students dealing with stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, work challenges, or substance use dependencies.
