Strategies for Legal Professionals to Reclaim Harmony, Manage Stress, and Thrive in their legal careers
First Step Men's Therapy is a men's mental health clinic that operates across Ontario. We work with many professionals (lawyers/doctors/executives) looking to develop a healthier relationship with themselves and others.
We also work with men navigating our legal system (civil/criminal) and have worked with men before and after trial/sentencing and while on probation/parole.
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"The passion I had for law seems to have disappeared."
"I don't even remember the last time I took a proper break."
"I can't say no to additional work, even though I know I should."
"I used to enjoy the challenges, but now it all feels so detached."
"There's no time for anything outside of work. It's all-consuming."
"I used to be so passionate about my cases, but lately, it's just hard to care."
Perhaps you heard some of yourself in these statements.
In the challenging and fast-paced world of law, burnout has become an increasingly alarming concern that can lead to personal and professional challenges. Lawyers, often viewed as models for strength and resilience, are not immune to the detrimental effects of chronic stress, long hours, and overwork.
In this post, we will shed some light on the signs of burnout within the profession, offering insights into its root causes and providing actionable strategies to cope with the relentless demands of the legal profession.
So how problematic is burnout in the legal profession?
In a Bloomberg Law publication published in 2021, more than half of 614 lawyers surveyed stated they had experienced burnout in their roles over the past year. Another study published in the USA recently found that of the 3,000 lawyers surveyed, 60% felt overwhelmed and exhausted while 75% believed that the role within the legal profession impacted their mental health.
What does burnout look like for those struggling with it?
Burnout can look differently depending on the person and circumstance. Some core signs include:
Excessive Fatigue: Lawyers facing burnout often experience unrelenting fatigue that transcends a normal workload. Long hours, sleepless nights, and constant pressure contribute to physical and mental exhaustion.
Disconnection from self and others: Burnout can manifest as emotional detachment, where lawyers feel disconnected from their work, clients, and colleagues. This detachment not only affects professional relationships but can also lead to a diminished quality of legal services.
Declining performance and work quality: Burnout often results in a decline in professional performance. Lawyers may struggle to meet deadlines, make errors, and experience a general decrease in the quality of their work.
Loss of Interest in Work/Life: Lawyers passionate about their profession may find themselves losing interest in the work they once loved or struggle with being interested in things outside of work (family/friends/activities).
Emotional Distress: Some might experience detachment, irritability, and cynicism that can impact not only their work but also their relationships outside of work.
Increased reliance on unhealthy coping mechanisms: Those struggling with burnout may turn to alcohol, drugs, sex, food, shopping, video games, gambling and other behaviours to numb or self-soothe during periods of stress and burnout.
What factors lead to lawyers feeling burnout?
Culturally, the law profession has been shaped as one that focuses on results, justice, and accountability, which can sometimes lead to increased pressure and long work hours. If a client were to lose a trial or hearing, it can have devastating and impactful results that for some clients can last a lifetime. Common factors within the legal profession that lead to burnout include:
Excessive Workload: The legal field is notorious for its demanding workload. Long hours, tight deadlines, and the pressure to deliver results can quickly lead to burnout if not managed properly.
High Client Expectations: Meeting client expectations is a fundamental aspect of legal practice. However, when these expectations become unrealistic or unmanageable, lawyers may find themselves on the brink of burnout.
Difficulty Balancing Life & Work: Achieving a healthy work-life balance is often challenging for lawyers. The profession's inherent demands for results and success can make it difficult to prioritize one's personal life, leading to burnout and other challenges (i.e. relationship stress) over time.
High-Stakes Nature of the Work: Dealing with high-stakes cases and the consequential impact on clients' lives can take a toll on a lawyer's mental well-being. The constant pressure to win and the fear of making mistakes contribute to burnout.
So what are some strategies you can do to reduce or mitigate burnout in the workplace?
Prevention is key to reducing burnout. Finding ways to know the signs of burnout and finding small, actionable steps to reduce the risk or likelihood of burnout can be important.
Establish boundaries around work and life: Clearly define work hours and avoid taking work home regularly. Setting boundaries can be helpful in preventing overworking and allows time for personal life and self-care.
Make it a daily habit to prioritize self-care: Despite a hectic work schedule, it can be helpful to incorporate regular self-care practices into your routine, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies. Something as simple as a quick walk around the office or short 5-minute activity can reduce stress and set the intention for taking breaks.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to manage stress and promote a sense of calm. Apps like Headspace, Calm, and Breethe are helpful for those looking to get started.
Seek support through a mental health professional: Therapy can be a good place to address the emotional toll of legal work. A mental health professional can provide guidance and support in navigating burnout, boundaries, and other associated challenges.
Take vacations (even short ones): Vacations are a great way to reset and refresh. While extended vacations might be difficult given the nature of work, weekend getaways or day trips outside of the city can be a great, intentional way to make space for recharging one’s batteries.
Connect with social supports: As burnout can feel disconnecting, it may be helpful to check in with colleagues, mentors, or friends who understand the challenges of the legal profession. Sharing experiences and seeking advice can provide valuable support.
Create a Supportive Work Environment: Advocate for a workplace culture that supports employee well-being. Encourage open communication, flexibility, and initiatives promoting mental health within the workplace.
It's crucial to acknowledge the toll that the legal profession can take on your well-being. As a lawyer, recognizing the signs of burnout is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step towards reclaiming control over your life and career. By prioritizing self-care, setting clear boundaries, and seeking support, you empower yourself to not only endure the challenges but to thrive in the legal arena.
Remember, reducing burnout is not just about safeguarding your personal health; it's an investment in the longevity of your passion for law. You deserve a career that aligns with your values, allows for a fulfilling personal life, and ultimately enables you to be the best advocate you can be. By taking these steps, you're not just transforming your own narrative; you're contributing to the evolution of a legal community that champions resilience, well-being, and sustained professional excellence.
Want to learn more? Reach out to us at 289-216-5075 or email at info@firststepmenstherapy.com. We offer free 20-minute consultations and various session rates options to suit every budget.