EMPATHY FOR A LAWYERS SECRET STRUGGLE

MEET RALPH

Ralph has a secret.

Ralph is struggling with chronic depression and anxiety.

He takes prescriptions for his mental health, yet he still drinks alcohol each night, even though it is risky.

Ralph suffered for many years. He felt like he had no choice.

When I asked Ralph why he waited so long to seek help, he gave me four reasons:

THE REASONS RALPH KEPT HIS SECRET

• "Pamela, the stigma in the legal profession is real. I don't want to be considered a weak lawyer, and I am supposed to be tough and resilient.

• To be considered a good lawyer, I am supposed to be able to work under extreme pressure.?

• Even though I may have mental problems, I can't take time off or seek help and can't afford to take a break from work.

• My firm environment is highly competitive and isolating, and l can't discuss these things with anyone.

• Practicing law can be a lonely career.

RELIEF FOR RALPH

Ralph had all of his fears and concerns bottled up inside.

Thankfully, he felt safe enough to tell me everything that was happening to him.

I explained to Ralph that even though he had a therapist and a psychiatrist, having a coach would help him manage his mental health while functioning at a high level in his law practice.

Mental health is invisible to those on the outside, but it affects both mental and physical health.?

RALPH'S COURAGE

I said to Ralph, "You are courageous to face these so-called demons torturing you.

Education about your condition is as important as using tools to overcome depression. You have over 6,000 thoughts each day and your thinking along with your physiology contributes to your chronic condition."

PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH MENTAL HEALTH

? Some effects of mental health difficulties are heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It also can manifest as indigestion, chest pains, and headaches.

? Mental health ruins marriages, relationships with children, and friends.

? Mental health affects a lawyer's ability to show up at work and meet all of the demands required.

? Not tending to your mental health affects your quality of life.?

? People with mental health problems are more likely to feel unhappy, hopeless, and worthless.?

For most of us, our mental health illnesses never disappear entirely.

It becomes crucial to have a coach to help you in your law practice when you feel overwhelmed with depression or anxiety.

?Talking to someone you trust is essential if you are struggling with your mental health.

There is no shame in seeking help. If you are struggling, you can talk with me, so immediately set an appointment and don't delay.

FINDING HAPPINESS, PEACE OF MIND, AND TO THRIVE

I am passionate about helping lawyers overcome these challenges and reach their full potential.?

Everyone deserves to be happy and successful, and I am committed to providing the resources, and support lawyers need to achieve their goals.

It's important to remember that struggling with your mental health is nothing to be ashamed of.?

Mental illness is just like any other illness, such as the flu or cancer, and no one chooses to have it.

Ignoring your mental health won't make it go away. In fact, without proper support, it can even get worse over time.

? If you're a lawyer struggling with mental health, know you're not alone. Many lawyers face similar challenges.

?Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

? Keep someone in your corner to help you manage the extraordinary pressures involved when practicing law so that you can thrive.

? As a coach, I help lawyers develop self-care practices and coping mechanisms to avoid burnout and regain their passion for their work.

? Remember to be kind to yourself and seek the support you need to take care of your mental health. You deserve to be happy and healthy."

I have spent over 25 years helping lawyers struggling with mental or emotional problems to find happiness, peace of mind and gain the ability to thrive in their law practice and make more money.?

Click Here if you want to learn about how coaching can help you in your law practice.