Commissioner William J. Gust recognized with Welliver award

The Missouri Lawyers’ Assistance Program awarded Commissioner William J. Gust this year’s Warren Welliver Award. 

The Welliver award is presented to a member who has best exemplified compassion and concern for lawyers in Missouri during the last year. 

Gust is the probate commissioner for the Probate Court of St. Louis County. 

“By his willingness to recognize and discuss well-being initiatives openly, he promotes an atmosphere that reduces stigma and creates a healthier environment for everyone, ensuring that no lawyer feels alone in their struggle,” his nominators said. 

They added that the compassionate approach Gust takes offers a refreshing change in a field where pressure is the norm, deadlines loom, and the emotional toll can be overwhelming. 

“His nomination is not solely a recognition of his professional excellence but is an opportunity for all of us within the legal profession to reflect on the importance of empathy, understanding, and support,” the nominators said. 

Gust received the award during the Nov. 1 annual MOLAP Conference in Jefferson City.

Gust said he was honored by the award and kind words, noting the area of probate law has a large mental health component. 

There are situations he handles involving guardianships and civil commitments to psychiatric wards, and many of these individuals have mental illnesses.

Focusing on mental health has made a difference for the citizens he works with, Gust said. 

“One of the things that I noticed is the difference it was making to see people who were able to go in, and … they would get that help, they would get medication …” Gust said. 

Medication helped them move on with their lives after living with a mental health issue for years, Gust said. Being able to talk to others about their mental health has helped them live fuller lives, he added.

Speaking openly about mental health can also benefit lawyers. 

“I just try to do my best and … my idea is that attorneys can be able to speak openly about this too because it’s such a difficult job in and of itself,” Gust said. “And we all have our own challenges, whether or not we’re attorneys. So, I’ve always thought it’s very important to be able to speak openly about this stuff.” 

MOLAP helps individuals overcome personal concerns such as substance use, depression, stress, and burnout through a variety of no-cost services. MOLAP provides a professional, confidential counseling program for members of The Missouri Bar, immediate family members who reside with them, and law students. 

Services include: 
— Counseling. Access services by calling 1-800-688-7859. MOLAP also makes referrals to professional resources. 
— Crisis intervention. MOLAP coordinates crisis intervention services for individuals and law firms. 
— Education and prevention. MOLAP offers educational programs and articles on topics such as substance use, stress, depression, and quality of life. 

Visit MoBar.org/MOLAP for more information.