Traditionally, Indigenous people have viewed health in a balanced and holistic way, finding connection between spiritual, emotional, mental and physical dimensions. Due to colonization, processes and support for mental health are often inconsistent with Indigenous principles and beliefs.
According to the National Study on the Health and Wellness Determinants of Legal Professionals in Canada, Indigenous legal professionals experience higher rates of psychological distress, depression and burnout compared to white lawyers. Although non-Indigenous and Indigenous lawyers share similar experiences when it comes to career opportunities, recognition and commitment to their practice, Indigenous lawyers are more likely than white lawyers to feel pressure due to emotional demands.
The National study found that 50 per cent of legal professionals (non-Indigenous and Indigenous) are hesitant to seek help due to fear of information being shared with the regulator or are unaware of available resources. Indigenous legal professionals not only face the same challenges, but share that most recommended mental health resources are not culturally appropriate. They also express that suitable programs normally have to be found by them and tend to involve an extensive application process, which creates another barrier.
In 2022, a report by the Aboriginal Law Graduates Working Group, Addressing Discriminatory Barriers Facing Aboriginal Law Students and Lawyers found that 81 per cent of respondents experienced barriers as an Aboriginal lawyer, with over 35 per cent expressing discrimination from other legal professionals and 22 per cent from clients.
It’s the Law Society of BC’s commitment to remove barriers Indigenous people may face in accessing our regulatory processes and the legal system. As well, removing stigma, burn out, discrimination and other health and wellness challenges experienced by Indigenous lawyers.
Below are some resources for Indigenous legal professionals and members of the public:
- Indigenous people who have a concern about a lawyer can contact our Indigenous Navigator for guided support and regulatory processes that are culturally safe, trauma-informed and incorporate Indigenous protocols.
- Legal professionals who have concerns or need help regarding discrimination or harassment can contact our Equity Advisor. The service is free, confidential and available to all legal professionals and support staff.
- Learn about trauma, overcoming shame and healing in this resource by Métis psychologist Dr. Jennifer Mervyn: How Modern-Day Brain Science Meets Traditional Indigenous Teaching Part 1 and Part 2.
- Join the Canadian Bar Association of BC’s Aboriginal Lawyers Forum for networking, mentoring and opportunities for Indigenous lawyers.
- Access the Hope for Wellness Helpline, which offers immediate support and crisis intervention 24 hours, seven days a week with experienced and culturally competent counsellors for Indigenous people across Canada.
For additional support, we encourage you to visit our Lawyer Well-Being Hub to access health and well-being resources and/or visit our Supporting Indigenous Lawyers page.
