Take time to participate in Well-Being Week in Law

It’s no secret that lawyers, judges, and law students carry high amounts of stress and anxiety. Studies have shown they are also more at risk for depression and substance use concerns. Even if a lawyer is not directly struggling with wellness or mental health challenges, they likely have a friend, colleague, or family member who is. While these challenges have become somewhat normalized in the legal industry, they do not have to be the standard.  

Monday marks the start of Well-Being Week in Law, a national observation aimed at raising awareness of mental health and encouraging action and innovation across the profession to improve well-being. 

Throughout the week, The Missouri Bar will be sharing social media content related to wellness that falls under the categories of:  

• physical well-being;  

• spiritual well-being;  

• occupational and intellectual well-being;  

• social well-being; and  

• emotional well-being.  

Learn more about these pillars of wellness here.  

The Missouri Lawyers’ Assistance Program will also be offering free depression screenings May 3, substance screenings May 5, and stress management consultations May 6.  

Remember: Reaching out for help is a sign of strength and hope. Your best work starts with you. No matter what stage you are at in your personal wellness journey, The Missouri Bar is here to help!  

Lawyers, judges, law students, and the immediate family members living with them have 24/7 access to a licensed clinical social worker and part-time access to a licensed professional counselor. All services through the Missouri Lawyers’ Assistance Program are free and confidential. They may be accessed by calling 1-800-688-7859 or visiting MoBar.org/MOLAP.

To follow along and join the conversation during Well-Being in the Law Week, look for posts with #MOLawyers, #MentalHealthMatters, and #WellbeingWeekInLaw.