Mental health and the legal profession: what can we do to help?

Lately I have been thinking a lot about what I, as a leader, can do to support mental health at our law firm, Hall & Wilcox. RU OK? Day has reminded us all of the importance of mental health, seeing the signs and connecting with and supporting each other.

There has been positive feedback about Hall & Wilcox being a healthy place to work. There is also more that we and I can do.

Let’s be clear – the stakes are high. One in three lawyers will suffer from depression, and 45% of people will suffer from a mental health condition at some point in their life. This is a serious issue in our business. The consequences can be tragic.

I posted on our yammer network (as part of my weekly 'MacWrap') some of my thoughts. Here is a summary:

Authenticity

Our first 'Hallmark' is ‘stay true’. We need to be able to bring our whole selves to work, without fear of judgment.

Connection

Human connection is, I think, fundamental. We thrive by having meaningful relationships with others – both at and outside work. The more I feel connected with my colleagues, the happier I am and the better I perform.  

Awareness

I want us to increase our awareness of each others' mental health, and being more prepared to ask ‘Are you ok?’

Wellbeing

I encourage everyone to make personal wellbeing something that we do every day, whether it is exercise, meditation, healthy eating or quality sleep. I couldn't cope without doing this.

Expectations

Sometimes things just need to get done. Often, however, the deadlines set – including by ourselves – are unrealistic. We need to be prepared to be patient, and to show empathy for others’ multiple competing priorities. I know that I can work on this.

Time

Time billing is often cited as one of the reasons for depression and anxiety among law firm professionals. We can’t yet get completely away from time billing. What we can do is ensure that the billing targets that we set are reasonable and achievable. We also must make sure that we value and reward much more than time.

Gratitude

We have to stop and celebrate our success. This includes taking the time to reflect and be grateful for what we have done and what we are achieving.

Support

It is important that we feel supported if things aren’t right. We need to be able to reach out and get assistance.

I love the idea of every day being RU OK? day. I want us to create a work environment where we can talk openly about and normalise mental health, and support each other to be the best that we can be.