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<title>The Work from Home Saga</title>
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<dc:creator><![CDATA[friedaL2020]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Fri, 25 Sep 2020 06:38:42 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Lawyer Life]]></category>
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<description><![CDATA[<p>2020 - it's been quite a year, hey! Where are those ruby slippers when you need them?! But, let's take a look at what a year of working from home has taught us. Join us for a fun and insightful trip down the Yellow Brick Road.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-work-from-home-saga/">The Work from Home Saga</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">THE WORK FROM HOME SAGA</h2>
<h5 class="wp-block-heading"><em>An article by Alicia Koch, Founder of <a href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist">The Legal Belletrist</a> </em></h5>
<p>I have a shoe fetish. There I said it. I confess. Shoes are my “thing”. I have a whole Instagram account just about shoes (I’m not joking). And over the years, I have amassed quite a collection. Louboutin, Jimmy Choo, Manolo Blahnik. You name it. </p>
<p>And because I am short, they are high. Like 12 cm stiletto heel high. And I use to love to flaunt myself around in them. A once-upon-a-time (self-proclaimed) “glamazon” I now find myself prancing around my home in my sheepskin slippers. Not at all the same thing.</p>
<p>My shoes must have thought I died!</p>
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<p>I mean, who would have thought that on New Year’s Eve 2019 we were looking ahead to a future full of lounge wear (as opposed to couture, pajama’s all day) because, <em>who cares?</em> Zoom calls from bed, “because you can” and Netflix binges during lunch times, <em>sans</em> the prying judgmental eyes of colleagues, because during your free time you can do whatever you want. Right? Basically a year full of (what my grandmother would call) laziness and slobbery. Which I obviously take offence to because well, I only wear pajama <em>bottoms</em> all day.</p>
<p>But it is only recently that we have (at least in South Africa) been allowed to venture out, go shopping, have a wax and our hair coloured (those grey hairs were peaking out a little too much from the roots), making an effort to look less like the <em>“Wicked Witch from the West”</em> and a little more like Dorothy in her red glittery shoes (or some variation of that). It is only recently that we have been allowed to eat out at restaurants where we have been able to order a glass of wine and, in essence, return to some semblance of normality. Whatever that means….</p>
<p>It really has been a trip down the <em>“yellow brick road”</em> and no amount of clicking our heels, repeating over and over again – <em><strong>“There’s no place like home”</strong></em> will take us back to where we want to go. Which for most of us, is anywhere but 2020. Because the truth really is – we <strong><em>are</em> </strong>home. And whilst there is no place like it, there has, most certainly, been challenges.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Welcome to Oz</h3>
<p>When I arrived in Oz (fear not, I have not immigrated!), I wasn’t at all out of place. I had been here before. Many times over the last few years during consulting gigs or in-between jobs. I knew my way around the place and was quite content with my little corner of the world, where I could set up shop and start working. I have never been as fancy as other people. I do not have my own home office. I work from my dining room table, which is long and wide and has lots of space to spread out my research and notes on articles I have been writing. With no one but my two cats and a pot of coffee, I have always been content at my dining room table, which overlooks my old lemon tree. I kept a work schedule, got up early (as one normally would), had a healthy breakfast, went to gym (on a good day) and started to write by 9h30am. Which I know is late for some. But it worked for me. And by the time hubby arrived home from work, I had packed up for the day and was ready to spend quality time with him talking about our days. It was blissful (a little like a trip back in time to 2019). And our home was a happy and content one with set boundaries, time and space allocations for specific tasks.</p>
<p><strong>Then Covid hit and the world went into Lockdown.</strong> We all know the story by now…. Companies around the world closed their doors and most employees were told to work from home. Oz seemed rather crowded, with no set boundaries and set time and space allocations, it was a little like a free for all. And I have been less than amused.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><b>The yellow brick road</b></h3>
<p>The journey down the yellow brick road starts off innocently enough. Everyone walking hand in hand down the road together. Families start off singing and humming tunes (mostly out of key but in sync), as they walk together down the road. But things can turn dark, quickly.</p>
<p>The saying goes that “<strong><em>absence makes the heart grow fonder</em></strong>”. So having a place to go when working and having your own space (even if it is an open plan office) before coming home to a shared space with your partner (and kids), is often needed. Couples (generally) look forward to seeing each other at the end of the day or like to sneak in a quick call to see how each other’s day is going. But that has changed. And calling your spouse from the room next to yours does not count – <em><strong>#heightoflaziness</strong></em>.</p>
<p>When working from home, couples are finding themselves spending 24 hours a day together and there is very little separation between work life and home life. Many couples have quickly realized that what they usually find endearing about their significant other, can become less so, when they are permanently embedded in their work space.</p>
<p>For example I never knew I was the kind of person that required complete silence and peace when writing articles. I like to play Beethoven, have my coffee and calmly plan my day. I never knew (because I have worked in open plan offices many times before) that I was the kind of person that gets annoyed by the smallest thing – like talking.</p>
<p><em><strong>And my husband talks. A lot.</strong> </em>To clients, to colleagues. To himself (when writing emails). So, managing the two extremes has been challenging. With my reaction to my husband saying out aloud – “<em>Dear Colleagues”</em> acting like a red flag in front of a bull. All I want to do is charge. But I don’t. Because I am not a violent person (cue <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thelillyslaptsilli/videos/lionels-shnoz/2647608858788130/">Lilly Slaptsilli</a>). But it is tempting. And with a new kitten running around the home like a hooligan with his tail on fire and our older cat hissing because someone has invaded his space, I literally feel like I am in an episode of <a href="https://www.animalplanet.com/tv-shows/my-cat-from-hell/">“My cat from hell”.</a> And there is no Jackson Galaxy to call for help. But I do find that very (very, very) deep breaths help.</p>
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<p>But it seems worse when speaking to friends with children. They have said it has been tough. Like really tough. Like finishing a bottle of wine tough.</p>
<p>Working full time whilst at home, you become not only a mom but a full time teacher, play mate and disciplinarian.</p>
<p>And it can be tiring. When you have a demanding job which requires you to be on Zoom calls during tense negotiations, having your 5 year old little girl running into your “home office” shouting <em>“look mom I am naked”</em> whilst talking to the CEO, senior international attorneys and financiers, is less comical and more mortifying. Especially when no one else laughs. Or when your 6 year old answers your phone and starts grilling your CEO on his age, where he lives and what he likes to eat for dinner. Especially when your CEO has no sense of humour. At all.</p>
<p>So the balance between mom, wife, teacher, full time employee and woman (which has its own stresses of <em>“Does my bum look big in these pants”</em>) has been extremely taxing (without any hope of a rebate from SARS).</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What will you miss about Oz?</h3>
<p>The obvious one (and what the majority of people have relayed) is flexibility. And I don’t just mean working the hours that suit you. It is more than that. It is being able to have a proper work-life balance (something <strong><a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/">Braving Boundaries</a></strong> not only supports but advocates). And something so many of us have fought for over the years. Eliminating the need to commute with time wasted in traffic going to and from meetings and back home again, people have been given some breathing room. And whilst this does come with some cons (not having the separation between work life and home life and having to be not only mom but teacher as well) it does have some major pros.</p>
<p>For example, when asking my close friend (working mom of two) she said she will miss just being able to have lunch with her kids or to take 30 mins out of her day to help her daughter with homework (something the au pair usually helps with). It’s about being around day-to-day for the boring things whilst your kids are growing up. Things we take for granted whilst we work full time in demanding jobs.</p>
<p>I think it’s something we will all miss (not necessarily having lunch with our kids – we are not all parents), rather it will be missing the simple everyday things. Like being able to pop out to the shops to buy ingredients for dinner, or to pop in somewhere to get your nails done (during your own lunch hour) or even simply being able to take yourself to the doctor without having to ask permission to do so.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/working-from-home-768x1024.png" alt="working from home"/></figure>
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<p>It’s just something about not being in an office environment that has allowed people some freedom. And that sounds like a pretty obvious statement. But think about it – without having a colleague asking where you are going, people talking about the hours you have spent out of the office (behind your back) and disapproving looks from your boss – people feel more in control over their work, themselves and their daily lives. And that is such a powerful thing. Being in control. And not something to dismiss or take lightly.</p>
<p>In exchange, a lot of people have become much more productive. In fact in an article on Business News Daily, <a href="https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/15259-working-from-home-more-productive.html#:~:text=Working%20From%20Home%20Increases%20Productivity&text=According%20to%20one%20study%2C%20remote,weeks%20of%20work%20per%20year.&text=One%20of%20the%20most%20effective,taking%20breaks%20throughout%20the%20day." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Working From Home Increases Productivity</a>, “<em>remote employees work 1.4 more days per month than their office-based counterparts, resulting in more than three additional weeks of work per year</em>”. And that says something about the ability to be in control.</p>
<p>From my own experience (even though I am not new to the working from home lifestyle) if I am out during the day and spend three hours not working, I know when I get home I have to make up those three hours and it often results in me working later into the evening. Which I am happy to do, because I had <strong><em>the freedom to choose</em></strong>. And let’s face it, there are very few employers who are happy to let you decide your own hours, how you practice and when you get work done. Because there is still this mentality of bums on seats and micromanaging teams. Which works (and is required) in some industries (for example like sections of manufacturing, call centres and financial institutions) but it is often stifling for the professional who wants a work life balance (often thought of as a cliché in interviews – <em>what are you looking for from a job?</em>).</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Will you leave Oz?</h3>
<p>With lockdown forcing employers to actually encourage work from home situations, companies have become far more outputs driven than clock watchers. And that really is how it should always have been. I have always felt that happy staff are productive staff. And the numbers prove it. In fact, companies like Twitter have allowed their staff to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-52628119" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">work from home “forever”</a>. The decision came as the social media giant said its work-from-home measures during the lockdown had been a success. Whilst at the same time saying that it would allow workers to return to the office if they choose to, when it reopens. Again giving employee’s choice.</p>
<p>This move by Twitter (and other <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2020/05/22/tech/work-from-home-companies/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">companies</a> such as Facebook, Square and Spotify – do they all know something we don’t?), has been described by Sree Sreenivasan, a Professor of Digital Innovation at the Stony Brook University School of Journalism in the USA, as an <strong><em>“era-defining moment”</em></strong>. And that is compelling. That working from home is an era-defining move. A lot of us are jointly saying “<em>Amen</em>” to that. Working moms have been fighting for decades to have more of a work life balance, <em>without the judgement</em> (or reduced pay) and it is fantastic that it is <em>seemingly</em> becoming the norm.</p>
<p>With the jury still out as to whether most companies and their respective employees will go back to an office environment permanently, this new ability to choose has definitely given people things to think about. In a good way.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What will you take away from your time in Oz?</h3>
<p>Well, I can tell you now that it is not blasting <strong><em>“Eye of the Tiger”</em></strong> at 9am (something my 80’s loving neighbor has done for 4 weeks straight). That said, perhaps it does help him “become the tiger” and focus on the prize. I’m not sure. Whatever floats his boat.</p>
<p>But, speaking personally it comes down to being disciplined. And having a plan for your day. Being strict about your work space and the time you spend in it. It is all too easy to take your phone to bed, late at night to answer a work-related email. So, you need to set boundaries. Just because you are at home, does not mean you are available 24 hours a day.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shower-singing-768x1024.png" alt="shower singing"/></figure>
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<p>And for me, it has also been about having confidence in myself. Knowing that I don’t need to be watched like a hawk in order to get a job done. And I think it is the same for many people out there. Micromanaging is out of date. Freedom is the new go to. And with that comes the need to be disciplined.</p>
<p>Forbes.com has provided some very useful tips in their article <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/bryanrobinson/2020/03/14/9-tips-to-be-productive-when-working-at-home-during-covid-19/#4108966e5a38" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">9 Tips To Be Productive When Working At Home During COVID-19</a>. It is a really good reference point if you are feeling a little less motivated and need a guideline on how to get yourself back on track. Which does happen. That is why we have road maps. Or Sat Nav for those of us (myself included), who cannot read a map to save their lives. </p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Final thoughts</h3>
<p>It seems to me, that despite being in a place resembling the Emerald City, where our wildest work from home dreams are possibly coming true, it is crystal clear that <strong><em>“We are not in Kansas anymore Toto”</em></strong> (mind you, I am not sure Kansas will ever look the same again).</p>
<p>But despite the changes, the uncertainties and “crystal ball gazing” into what we <em>think </em>our futures are going to look like, one thing is for sure – we have all changed and in that we have all found ourselves, in some way. Even in the smallest of ways.</p>
<p>For me (and possibly for many others), it has been the freedom of choice and how we want to work and how we want to live.</p>
<p>For some, it has been finding their hearts again, like spending quality time with their significant others, their children and their loved ones. Much like the Tin Man finding his heart again. For others, it has involved finding the courage to start something new. To believe in themselves again. Just like the cowardly Lion finding his courage again. And for others, it still remains a search for their ideal working from home situation. Just remember, even Dorothy had many obstacles to overcome in her search for her way home. But during her journey she made friends, went on adventures and in the end, went home with the most amazingly beautiful red glittery slippers!</p>
<p>And isn’t that the point – finding your “thing” at the end of it all? Perhaps the yellow brick road is not so tricky after all.</p>
<p>_______________________________________</p>
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<p>This delightful article was written by <strong>Alicia Koch</strong>, <strong>Founder of The Legal Belletrist</strong>.</p>
<p>Alicia, an admitted attorney with over 10 years PQE, and now a legal writer and researcher, has established The Legal Belletrist to assist companies (in different sectors) to write well researched articles that speak to each company’s core business, enabling growth and commercialism. </p>
<p>Click here to visit <a href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Legal Belletrist website</a>.</p>
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<p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-work-from-home-saga/">The Work from Home Saga</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p>
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<title>Law firms: 8 practical ways to improve staff mental health</title>
<link>https://bravingboundaries.com/law-firms-8-ways-to-improve-your-staff-mental-health/</link>
<comments>https://bravingboundaries.com/law-firms-8-ways-to-improve-your-staff-mental-health/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[friedaL2020]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 10 Sep 2020 06:19:07 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Lawyer Life]]></category>
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<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bravingboundaries.com/10-tips-for-lawyers-who-want-to-improve-their-mental-health-copy/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Law firms: Your staff’s mental health matters. It’s time to take action! And here’s why.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/law-firms-8-ways-to-improve-your-staff-mental-health/">Law firms: 8 practical ways to improve staff mental health</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p>
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<h5 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Article 5 of 5 in the <em>Mental Health in the Law</em> series</strong></h5>
<p></p>
<p>Mental Health is a hot topic in the legal industry at the moment!</p>
<p>After the release of the <a href="https://www.americanbar.org/groups/lawyer_assistance/task_force_report/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Task Force Report on Lawyer Well-being</a> in 2016 (an excellent report by the way!), the mental health of legal professionals in the USA was firmly placed on the agenda. Other countries quickly followed suit with additional reports being produced in the <a href="https://www.lawcare.org.uk/images/INFOGRAPHIC-NEW.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UK</a>, <a href="https://www.swaab.com.au/news/breaking-anz-meritas-wellness-survey-2019" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australia & New Zealand</a> and <a href="https://www.oliverwyman.com/content/dam/oliver-wyman/v2/publications/2019/January/mental-health-in-the-workplace-survey-of-hk-empoyees-in-professional-services-firms.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hong Kong</a>, amongst others.</p>
<p>Clearly the <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-legal-sector-has-a-very-real-mental-health-problem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">legal sector has a very real mental health problem</a>.</p>
<p>But what actual strategies have law firms implemented to start improving the mental health of their staff? And, more importantly, what can your law firm do?</p>
<p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Why law firms should care about their staff mental health </strong></h3>
<p>I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. Your lawyers are your greatest asset. Your prized commodity. Your engine.</p>
<p>Like a car, if you want your law firm / team to function well, you need to keep the engine in good condition.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.americanbar.org/groups/lawyer_assistance/task_force_report/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Task Force Report on Lawyer Well-being</a> succinctly highlights the business case for doing so:</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">It’s good for clients</h3>
<p>By investing in improving the mental health of your staff, you will improve:</p>
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<li>Staff communication</li>
<li>Staff productivity</li>
<li>Staff competence</li>
<li>Staff concentration</li>
</ul>
<p>All of which are vital to achieve the high standards of ethics and professionalism demanded from the legal sector.
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">It’s good for business</h3>
<p>We all know that staff work better in an environment which is happy, friendly and supportive. And furthermore, it actually makes good business sense.</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>It creates a happier and healthier workforce</li>
<li>It creates a more productive workforce</li>
<li>It creates a more engaged workforce</li>
<li>It builds trust between the law firm and your staff</li>
<li>It reduces the number of sick days being taken</li>
<li>It improves staff retention</li>
<li>It builds office morale</li>
<li>It improves your corporate image</li>
</ul>
<p>Based on that list, investing in mental health initiatives for your staff’s wellbeing is a bit of a no-brainer!
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">It’s the right thing to do!</h3>
<p>Aside from the fact that caring for your staff’s mental health can improve the firm’s bottom line, there is also a moral obligation to do so.</p>
<p>Legal professionals spend on average between 60-80 hours a week in the office (even if that is a home office) – more time than they spend at home. You are dependent on them as much as they are dependent on you. Their lives and their careers matter. So, support them by encouraging and actively promoting good mental health initiatives and real life balance.
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">My experience</h3>
<p>When I started out as a lawyer back in 2004, mental health was never a topic on the table for discussion.</p>
<p>I grew up in a legal world which was all about ‘<em>toughening up</em>’, ‘<em>pulling the hard hours whilst you are young</em>’ and ‘<em>earning your stripes</em>’.
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<p>I’d often chat to my superiors who would quite happily regale their personal stories of:</p>
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<li>5 solid days and nights in the office to complete a transaction,</li>
<li>weekend trips to Australia for a family wedding because that’s all the time they had, and</li>
<li>feasting on a 3am dinner of m&ms and oreo cookies at the printers whilst prospectuses were being finalised.</li>
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<p><strong style="font-size: 15px;">They wore it like a badge of honour. And so I mirrored that behaviour.</strong></p>
<p>What was not spoken about openly – but merely as a source of hushed toned gossip in the kitchenette – was:</p>
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<li>The senior associate crying in the toilet during that 5-day stint after a huge row with her husband for missing their daughter’s speech and drama exam.</li>
<li>The partner lashing out at his exhausted junior associate for missing two typos in the prospectus and kicking the printer in a state of fury.</li>
<li>The sadness of the single, in-house counsel who left yet another friend’s wedding wishing she was in a happy relationship. If only she had the time to meet someone.</li>
</ul>
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<p><strong>And because the above was not spoken about openly, the silenced experiences were repeated once again.</strong></p>
<p>I’d love to say that things have changed, but 15 years later I continue to see the same scenarios emerging.</p>
<p><em>So, for a legal world that now allegedly promotes the importance of mental health and mental health awareness, how is it that the above scenarios are still happening?</em>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">When lip-service is no longer an option
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<p>Before I highlight a couple of the amazing mental health and well-being initiatives, in general, the emphasis on improving mental health in the legal world is still far below an acceptable standard.</p>
<p>It is:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>no longer sufficient</strong> to have a mental health strategy which consists of a few pretty A4 posters dotted around the office claiming that mental health awareness is important to the firm.</li>
<li><strong>no longer sufficient</strong> to fully promote #mentalhealthawareness for a day, week or month per year (brilliant CSR branding, but …) and then have no ongoing strategy in place to keep the importance of mental health at the forefront of everyone’s mind.</li>
<li><strong>no longer sufficient</strong> to promote the fact your firm has signed up to the Mindfulness Business Charter or the Pledge on Well Being, and then pay lip-service to that fact.</li>
<li><strong>no longer sufficient</strong> to expect your individual staff members to take sole responsibility for their own mental health issues. Yes, they have a responsibility (see last week’s article: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/10-tips-for-lawyers-who-want-to-improve-their-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">10 tips for lawyers who want to improve their mental health</a>), but, so do you as a law firm.</li>
</ul>
<p></p>
<p>Many firms still have no mental health and well-being policies or strategies in place. And there is a general reluctance to spend money on such initiatives, as if the mental health of staff were merely a “nice to have” – another place to cut costs whilst struggling out of COVID-19.</p>
<p>In fact, this is probably the one place where you shouldn’t be scrimping on costs at the moment.</p>
<p><strong>Protect your staff. Help your staff. Care for your staff.</strong>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What mental health initiatives are working out there?</h3>
<p>Having said that, I do want to highlight two examples of mental health and wellness initiatives which have been instigated by legal firms (one global and one regional) which are having a <strong>really positive impact</strong> on the mental health of their staff and the working environment.</p>
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<p><strong>Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF)</strong> – In 2018, HSF launched <a href="https://www.herbertsmithfreehills.com/diversity-and-inclusion">Thrive</a>, the mental health initiative which forms part of HSF’s wider global diversity and inclusion (<strong>D&I</strong>) strategy. Whereas most D&I policies tend to focus on equality, HSF has a dedicated initiative to mental health. The firm’s partners and associates also actively speak about mental health awareness across social media platforms. Initiatives include:</p>
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<li><strong>“This is me” campaign</strong> – where individuals at all levels of the firm openly talk about mental health and their own experiences with poor mental health – breaking the stigma associated with discussing such topics.</li>
<li><strong>Mental Health Champions</strong> (UK, EMEA and Australia) – training individuals at all levels of the business to better understand common poor mental health conditions, how to spot early signs of possible issues and how to direct such individuals to appropriate support.</li>
<li><strong>How We Work</strong> – This is actually my favourite initiative. Why? Because it’s simple and it addresses the crux of the mental health problem in the legal sector. It promotes small changes to typical law firm behaviours which don’t promote good mental health. Some examples include: thoughtful delegation, encouraging balance and mindful emails. Check out the <a href="https://www.herbertsmithfreehills.com/diversity-and-inclusion">Guidelines</a>.</li>
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<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><strong>Clarissa Rayward – Brisbane Family Law Centre / Happy Lawyer Happy Life</strong><!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->Clarissa is one of my favourite mental health advocates in the legal space. She is an entrepreneurial divorce lawyer who left big law to establish the Brisbane Family Law Centre back in 2003. It’s not easy going out on your own, and, by 2013, she realised the effects it was having on her happiness levels and mental health. She started the <a href="https://www.happylawyerhappylife.com/">Happy Lawyer Happy Life</a> blog which initially focused on kind, calm and respectful divorce. That blog has now transformed into a global community for lawyers who are struggling with life, love and happiness. She advocates for good mental health in her own Law Centre and to lawyers at large through regular podcasts, an annual retreat for lawyers and workshops and seminars.<!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><strong>Why it works?</strong> Because she is passionate and absolutely believes in the importance of health and happiness in lawyers for a successful business. She leads the march and she walks her talk.</p>
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<h3>8 practical ways law firms can improve staff well-being<!-- /wp:heading --></h3>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->Poor mental health and wellbeing is experienced by all legal professionals irrespective of whether they work for a global, regional or boutique law firm.<!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><strong><em>NO ONE is immune to poor mental health.</em> </strong>So, a corporate strategy which will benefit <strong><em>ALL STAFF</em> </strong>at some stage of their career is vital.<!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->Here are 8 practical ways that law firms can improve staff well-being:</p>
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<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><strong>Educate around mental health</strong> – Most lawyers still feel awkward talking about mental health as a whole. That is mainly due to a misunderstanding as to what ‘mental health’ actually is (<a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-fear-around-mental-health-in-the-legal-world/">See Article 1 in this series</a>). We, as a legal sector, need to stop this stigma if there is any chance of improving mental health in the workplace. If you have a dedicated diversity & inclusion team which is capable of creating workshops / trainings around mental health, then regularly offer such trainings (at least once a quarter). If not, then <strong><u>invest</u></strong> in external support (such as <a href=" https://bravingboundaries.com/work-with-me/corporate-coaching/">Braving Boundaries</a> or <a href="https://www.lawcare.org.uk/">LawCare</a>) which offer such training. Get your staff talking openly about mental health issues in the workplace: what it is, how it manifests, how they can help themselves and others.</p>
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<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><strong>Walk the talk</strong> – No junior associate is going to look after their mental health, if the senior associate and partner above them is not doing so. As I stated above, we mirror the behaviour of our superiors. If they send emails at 10pm or stay in the office late, their juniors are going to feel obliged to do the same. Change is going to have to come from the top here. If you want a law firm which has a healthy environment, the management team has to walk the talk.</p>
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<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><strong>Manage your clients</strong> – So many of us spend our legal lives living at the beck and call of our clients.<!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->“<em>They pay us so much that we have to be available 24/7</em>” – They pay you so much because you give them valuable advice.<!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->“<em>They expect us to be immediately responsive</em>.” – They expect us to be immediately responsive because we have created that expectation.<!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->Clients (well, most clients) are human too – they have lives outside of the office & understand the importance of work-life balance. Partners have a duty to manage client expectations, to set realistic deadlines that respect the personal and professional commitments of their staff. As well as reducing personal stress, it will also result in greater respect from your clients and your staff.</p>
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<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><strong>Provide appropriate skills training</strong> – Being a lawyer is no longer just about being good at the law – you have to manage teams, negotiate, market and bring in clients. Given that none of these skills are taught during your law degree, it’s not surprising that many lawyers dread client drinks, speaking at seminars or leading a negotiation. It also explains why many lawyers make terrible managers and deeply struggle with business development. Help them to help you. Bring in outside specialists to help develop non-legal skills at an early stage in their legal career. Some examples include: <a href="https://www.necademy.com/">The Negotiation Academy</a>; and <a href="http://rgtraining.co.uk/courses.html">Really Great Training</a>.</p>
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<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><strong>Clamp down on bad behaviour</strong> – There is nothing worse than working in a toxic work environment. Executive management has a responsibility to stamp out behaviour which has a negative impact on the mental health of their staff (e.g. bullying, <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/workplace-ostracism-addressing-the-intangible-office-bully/">ostracism</a>, the sending of nasty emails, yelling, temper tantrums, gossiping etc.). No one should have to tolerate this type of behaviour in the workplace irrespective of the seniority of the instigator. It’s damaging to the team. It’s damaging to the reputation of the firm. It’s damaging to the targeted individual. Consider creating a dedicate Mental Health Committee of team members who genuinely care about the mental health of staff. Create protocols that allow individuals to report such behaviour without fear of retaliation/repercussion.</p>
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<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><strong>Provide access to external coaches / counsellors</strong> – Many global firms include individuals with coaching or counselling training as part of their D&I or HR departments. This is wonderful, particularly from a training aspect. But many staff members will be uncomfortable talking to internal personnel about difficulties at work or home for fear that they will be reported back to management. I’m not saying the fear is rationale, but it is real. In addition, there is a concern that the advice being given by internal staff takes into account the corporate stance, and is therefore less neutral. Provide your staff with a list of coaches/counsellors who specialise in this area. Give them a chance to choose a person who they are comfortable speaking to about their problems. Here are just some of the coaches who specialise in lawyer coaching:<!-- /wp:paragraph --><!-- wp:list --></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.principalsofpractice.com/">Principals of Practice</a></li>
<li><a href="https://clairebibby.com/">Claire Bibby</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.larawentworth.com.au/">Lara Wentworth</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.theinneradvocate.com/">The Inner Advocate</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.authenticallyspeaking.co.uk/">Authentically Speaking</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.hirsekorncoaching.com/">Emily Hirsekorn</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.helenconway.com/">Helen Conway</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.thehappyfamilylawyer.com/consultant-businesscoach/">Clarissa Rayward</a></li>
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<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><strong>Wave goodbye to the personal / professional divide</strong> – How many of you’ve heard: “<em>Oh that’s a personal issue. Not a concern for the office.</em>”? Unfortunately, if you want to improve mental health in the work environment, that notion is going to need to be set aside. Lawyers are people. They have lives outside of the office and those lives are going to have an impact on them – both good and bad. Take a genuine interest in the lives of your staff and colleagues. Get to know them. It establishes trust between team members, but it will also enable you to spot when behaviour changes and when they may need help.</p>
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<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><strong>Check-in on your staff</strong> – Now, more than ever given the remote working situation, we need to be checking in on each other. Check how your staff are feeling. Check if they are struggling with anything. If there has been an incident at work, follow up the next day and check that they are ok. It’s the little things that count here. If this doesn’t come naturally to you – stick a reminder in your calendar to drop them an email. It takes 1 minute to send a quick message to check someone’s ok.</p>
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<h3>Final thoughts<!-- /wp:heading --></h3>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->An <strong>on-going</strong> and <strong>practical</strong> mental health and wellbeing strategy is the key to improving mental health in the legal sector.<!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->The mental health of legal professionals <strong>CANNOT</strong> improve without the buy-in to proper mental health initiatives from law firms and the active promotion, practice and support of good mental health practices by Partners / the Executive Team.<!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->A fundamental change to long-standing, expected and accepted behaviour in the legal world is required if staff mental health is to improve.<!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><strong>That’s the corporate responsibility.</strong><!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->_______________________________________<!-- wp:block {"ref":2518} /--><!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --></p>
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<h4>Other articles in the <em>Mental Health in the Law</em> series<!-- /wp:heading --></h4>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->Article 1: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-fear-around-mental-health-in-the-legal-world/">The fear around mental health in the legal world</a><!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->Article 2: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-legal-sector-has-a-very-real-mental-health-problem/">The legal sector has a very real mental health problem</a><!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->Article 3: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/mental-health-stop-collaborate-and-listen/">Mental Health: Stop, Collaborate & Listen</a><!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->Article 4: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/10-tips-for-lawyers-who-want-to-improve-their-mental-health/">10 Tips for lawyers who want to improve their mental health</a><!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
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</div><p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/law-firms-8-ways-to-improve-your-staff-mental-health/">Law firms: 8 practical ways to improve staff mental health</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p>
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<title>10 tips for lawyers who want to improve their mental health</title>
<link>https://bravingboundaries.com/10-tips-for-lawyers-who-want-to-improve-their-mental-health/</link>
<comments>https://bravingboundaries.com/10-tips-for-lawyers-who-want-to-improve-their-mental-health/#comments</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[friedaL2020]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Fri, 28 Aug 2020 05:07:07 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Lawyer Life]]></category>
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<description><![CDATA[<p>Is your mental health in need of some improvement? Is your life in need of some proper work-life balance? Click on the latest blog post for some helpful tips to get your life back on track.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/10-tips-for-lawyers-who-want-to-improve-their-mental-health/">10 tips for lawyers who want to improve their mental health</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p>
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<div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h5 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Article 4 of 5 in the <em>Mental Health in the Law</em> series</strong></h5>
<h6 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Co-written by Frieda Levycky, Founder of <a href="http://www.bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>, and Alicia Koch, Founder of <a href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist">The Legal Belletrist</a> </em></h6>
<p>We’ve spent the last three weeks looking at some insightful pieces relating specifically to <strong>mental health in the legal profession</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The discomfort around the topic of mental health in the legal sector (<a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-fear-around-mental-health-in-the-legal-world/"><strong>Article 1</strong></a>);</li><li>The global statistics proving that the legal sector really does have a mental health problem (<a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-legal-sector-has-a-very-real-mental-health-problem/"><strong>Article 2</strong></a>); and</li><li>The importance of having open and honest conversations around mental health in order to break the associated stigma in the legal world (<strong><a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/mental-health-stop-collaborate-and-listen/">Art</a><a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/mental-health-stop-collaborate-and-listen/">icle</a><a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/mental-health-stop-collaborate-and-listen/"> 3</a></strong>).</li></ul>
<p>Now, it’s important that we also highlight some of the common situations experienced by legal professionals on a daily basis, which often negatively impact on their mental health. As the penultimate topic in this mental health series, we feel it is important to consider astute discussions around steps that can be taken by legal professionals to improve their mental health going forward.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">We’re all different!</h3>
<p>I want to start by saying that every lawyer is different. <em><strong>Every person is different.</strong> </em>Their life experiences are different. Their resilience levels are different. Their coping mechanisms are different. So, a situation which may seem manageable to one lawyer, may well be experienced very differently by another. And the impact on their mental health may differ also. Vastly.</p>
<p>I’ll give you an example.</p>
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<p>I’ve spent my legal career in very alpha-dominated environments: on a trading floor and in private practice. I’m used to dealing with unwanted attention, big tempers and high-pressured, competitive work environments. It doesn’t mean that I’m immune to the negative effects of these, but I have a pretty good coping mechanism in place. One could say that I became accustomed to what those environments entailed. But I also have a personality which has the ability to call someone out when a line has been crossed, and to say ‘no’ when something is not acceptable. And that took some learning.</p>
<p><strong>That isn’t the case for everyone.</strong></p>
<p>With job security (especially now), being so high on the list of priorities for most people, standing up for themselves or asking for help (when they are struggling), is not going to come easily. Instead, the impact of the event is internalised; it conflicts with personal values and morals, and causes more distress for the individual. It is a snow ball waiting to happen. And not in the fun, <em>“do you want to build a snowman</em>” kind of way.</p>
<p>The reason I mention this up front is that some of the situations listed below may seem trivial or part and parcel of being a lawyer. <strong>The <em>“keep quiet and get on with it”</em> mentality.</strong> But we are looking at this through our own lens. It is therefore very subjective. And for you to understand mental health triggers more clearly, we need to start seeing things from multiple perspectives.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A reminder of what ‘mental health’ really is</h3>
<p>The World Health Organization (<strong>WHO</strong>) defines mental health as:</p>
<p>“<em>a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.</em>”</p>
<p>Simply put – mental health is a state of well-being, something which everyone possesses and which can fluctuate from time to time. Naturally. We all experience different levels of mental health throughout our lives (good, mediocre and poor). <em><strong>It’s not static. It’s not constant. And, it is certainly not a weakness.</strong> </em>It is actually part and parcel of simply being a human being. Remember, lawyers are not super human, they are just human.</p>
<p>Poor mental health can manifest in a variety of ways and to varying degrees, including: stress, anxiety, changes in mood / behaviour, erratic thinking, impulsive actions, low self-esteem, feelings of loneliness, insomnia, burnout (and those are just a few of them).</p>
<p>It leaves you drained, emotional, hyper-sensitive (or numb), and to be honest, sometimes, quite teary-eyed. We have all been through it (even if we do not, unfortunately, openly admit it).</p>
<p>But, what situations contribute to these dips in our mental health?</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Common causes of mental health issues in the legal sector</h3>
<p>Seeking to identify every situation which could impact the mental health of an individual would be impossible. As we said, everyone is different and so are their tolerance levels. However, here are some of the more common situations expressed by legal professionals that have taken a toll on their mental and physical health:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Building your own practice area:</strong> Whether that be as an independent legal practitioner, a senior associate creating a business case for partnership, or as an existing partner – there is a constant pressure to bring in regular and/or new business into the firm. The COVID-19 pandemic has merely exacerbated this already stressful dynamic, causing more anxiety, more erratic behaviour and, for many, even more sleepless nights.</li><li><strong>Too much work / too little personal life:</strong> We’ve previously talked about the pressures imposed by the billable hour model and the expectations within firms that staff should be contactable 24/7. There is barely any downtime and this has a knock-on effect to the personal life of individuals. Many lawyers experience fractious home relationships with their partners and children, miss important events, work through holidays and weekends. There is a constant pressure to be 100% percent ‘on’ in everything they do (to basically be Wonder Woman / Superman). It’s no wonder that the proverbial balls get dropped from trying to juggle too much. It’s exhausting!</li><li><strong>Sedentary lifestyles:</strong> When you work long hours, you spend a lot of time sitting at your desk. This often leads to unhealthy eating habits (both to stay awake and sustained), lethargy sets in, the desire to exercise dissipates, and the weight starts to pile on. Client dinners and drinks are also part of the course, fuelling the unhealthy lifestyle even further.</li><li><strong>Inter-office relationships:</strong> With so much time being spent in the office, it’s no wonder that romantic relationships with colleagues form. Sometimes those relationships flourish, but more often than not, they serve as an interim distraction before one party moves on. Needless to say, that daily reminder of the more intimate relationship that once was, can be painful, distracting and in some cases debilitating.</li><li><strong>Toxic work environments:</strong> One of the most common complaints I hear from clients is with regards to unhappy working environments. The insecurities displayed within legal teams can be rife! Jostling for promotions. Competition for work to be seen up the chain. Personality clashes. Bullying. Back-stabbing. Ostracism. If you are on the receiving end of any of the pushback, the office can feel like a mine-field. You remain on tenterhooks all day and then bring the emotional drama home with you at night. A never-ending spiral.</li><li><strong>The ‘-isms’: </strong>Sexism, racism, machoism, chauvinism – the list goes on. I’d love to say these things no longer exist in professional working environments, but they do. And the impact of being treated as an outsider / lesser than, can have a detrimental impact on the mental health of an individual.</li></ul>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">And COVID-19 hasn’t helped matters …</h3>
<p>In many respects, the pandemic has eased (or rather deferred) the negative impact of some of the traditional legal sector scenarios. Fewer people are in the office. More time is spent at home with family. Any negative day-to-day interaction is dispelled. But, the pandemic itself has introduced new stressers into the mix:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Lack of communication</strong> – Whereas some lawyers strive in the home office environment, others struggle with being away from their friends and colleagues. Many worry about the impact that this is having on their legal education and development. Feelings of isolation are common (particularly for those living on their own). Many worry about what others are doing; about being too quiet; about being forgotten.</li><li><strong>Job security</strong> <strong>concerns</strong> – Some legal practices are booming at present (as is always the case in a crisis), but others are not. There is an increased anxiety about meeting targets and covering overheads. As Government-backed plans near their term, concerns around job security are on the rise. Many law firms have already cut their salaries or created innovative ways to manage cashflow issues – but as the economic stress continues – there are increasing concerns around job losses and the knock-on impact this has to family life.</li><li><strong>Troubled relationships –</strong> Strained office relationships have been replaced with strained home relationships. Juggling cleaning, cooking, work, online schooling, zoom calls, an hour of exercise etc., into a workable routine has worked for some, but for others, it’s resulted in heated arguments, more reliance on alcohol, poor communication and, in some cases, the collapse of the relationship altogether.</li><li><strong>Feelings of guilt</strong> – Many individuals are experiencing guilt for a variety of reasons: not being able to visit elderly relatives, struggling to be emotionally available for family members, ignoring their children because they are supposed to be working; overworking because they feel guilty that they haven’t been impacted financially as a result of the pandemic.</li><li><strong>Pressures to return to work</strong> – As the business world opens its physical doors again, many people are experiencing anxiety around returning to the office for fear of catching the virus, (particularly those who live with vulnerable family members) or returning to previously hostile environments.</li></ul>
<p>The list is endless. <em><strong>And, I repeat, different people will experience these scenarios in different ways.</strong></em> Some lawyers have thrived through lockdown – personal relationships have improved, new online relationships have blossomed, work flow has been at an all-time high, many are genuinely excited about getting back into the office and networking again, and feeling that familiar business buzz.</p>
<p>But, for those of you who are struggling with your mental health at the moment, let’s look at some strategies that can help <strong><em>improve your mental health in a healthy, productive and proactive way.</em></strong></p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">So, what can you do to help yourself? Today!</h3>
<p>It’s easy to blame the competitive and demanding legal industry for our mental health problems, but it cannot be held <em>solely</em> responsible. Whereas law firms and corporates have a responsibility to address systemic issues which negatively impact the health of their staff, we too, as individuals, have a responsibility to look after ourselves as best we can (physically, mentally and emotionally).</p>
<p>Practical steps that you can already start doing today include:</p>
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<p><strong>Get to grips with your values</strong> – when was the last time you sat down and identified your core values? Often the struggles we face in life are either because we are not living by our core values or because two or more of our values are in conflict with each other. If this sounds familiar, consider working with me to re-discover your core values and bring your life back into balance. <a href="https://calendly.com/bravingboundaries/discovery-call-30-mins?back=1&month=2020-08">Book a discovery call for more information</a></p>
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<p><strong>Sleep</strong> – poor sleep has been linked to mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. According to <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/sleep-and-mental-health">Harvard Medical School</a>, studies suggest that a good night’s sleep helps foster both mental and emotional resilience, while chronic sleep disruptions set the stage for negative thinking and emotional vulnerability. For professionals, 8 hours sleep may not feel like an option. So, concentrate on quality over quantity. <strong>Block out the blue light.</strong> <a href="https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/sleep-blue-light#:~:text=Exposure%20to%20all%20colors%20of,melatonin%20that%20makes%20you%20sleepy.">Web MD</a> succinctly describes how blue light (that bright white light emitted by our electronic devices) messes with our body’s ability to prepare for sleep. It blocks a hormone called melatonin that makes us sleepy. So, 30 minutes before bedtime, instead of scrolling through social media and emails (we all do it!), grab a Nicholas Sparkes off the bookshelf and lose yourself in the fictional world.</p>
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<p><strong>Keep active</strong> – lulls in mental health can leave you feeling sluggish and less inclined to exercise but it’s important to try and keep yourself moving. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and releases endorphins, our body’s own anti-depressant. It also releases other neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which lifts our mood. If you’ve got a sport you love, build it back into your weekly routine. If not, try out something completely new. </p>
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<p><strong>Sing</strong> – yes, gents, you too! There is nothing quite like belting out a good tune to lift your mood! <a href="https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/billboard-lists/9366625/mental-health-month-31-songs-positive-outlook">Here is a list put together by Billboard if you are looking for some positive inspiration</a>. Singing is a natural anti-depressant. Like exercise, it releases endorphins and makes you feel happy. Scientists have also proven that a tiny organ in the ear (the sacculus) responds to the frequencies created by singing. The response creates an immediate sense of pleasure, irrespective of how good or bad your singing is. Watch out Elton John!</p>
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<p><strong>Eat well</strong> – eating foods that are rich in complex carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, protein, and fatty acids is key to keeping your brain in good working order and therefore improving mental health. Eat regularly throughout the day to maintain a constant blood sugar level and avoid those dreaded sugar crashes. Aim for five portions of fruit and vegetables a day, limit your alcohol intake (as it has a depressant effect on the brain, which can result in a rapid worsening of your mood) and make sure you keep hydrated. We all need a treat now and then, but if your mood is low, improving your diet is a quick and easy area to make improvements.</p>
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<p><strong>Meditate</strong> – I won’t lie. It’s not for everyone. But if you are stressed and are looking for a simple way to take time out from the relentless pace of daily life, then meditation and mindfulness exercises are a great place to start. It can be a challenge to begin with, but free apps such as <a href="https://www.headspace.com/headspace-meditation-app">Headspace</a>, <a href="https://www.simplehabit.com/">Simple Habit</a> and <a href="https://www.oakmeditation.com/">Oak</a> can all help you to train your mind to focus and redirect your thoughts.</p>
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<p><strong>Prioritize priorities</strong> – let’s be honest, yes, work is demanding, but there are successful lawyers and entrepreneurs, with the same number of hours in the day, who manage to have a happy and fulfilling life outside of the office. What secret do they know that you don’t? They make a choice. They have balance. Next time you hear yourself saying: <em><strong>“I just don’t have the time”</strong>, </em>I invite you to consciously stop and ask yourself these three questions: </p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><em>“What am I prioritising here?”</em></li><li><em>“What am I sacrificing?”</em></li><li><em>“Is this the option I want to choose?”</em></li></ul>
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<p><strong>Live within your means</strong> – we live in a world which encourages us to overspend. It’s all well and good wanting to keep up with the Kardashians’, but a decadent lifestyle can handcuff you. By reining back our outgoings, we give ourselves freedom, flexibility and a lot less stress.</p>
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<p><strong>Maintain your external relationships</strong> – invest time and energy in your relationships outside of the office. They matter. When things get tough at work, colleagues can often feel conflicted. It is your friends and family outside of the office who will be your greatest support. So take the time to build and maintain these relationships.</p>
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<p><strong>Seek external support</strong> – coaching, counselling and mentorship services, such as those that can be found at <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/">Braving Boundaries</a>, offer a confidential space to talk and think through any personal difficulties with a trained professional. Many people find it helpful to do this with someone who isn’t a friend or family member.</p>
</div>
</div>
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/MG_4292-1024x683.jpg" alt="Finding balance"/></figure>
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<p>And if you need a little more encouragement, try one of these on for size:</p>
<p><em>“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.”</em> ―E.E. Cummings</p>
<p><em>“It is courage, courage, courage, that raises the blood of life to crimson splendor. Live bravely and present a brave front to adversity.” </em>―Horace</p>
<p>And lastly,</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/joseph-Campbell-1.png" alt=""/></figure>
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<p>It takes courage and bravery to admit that you are experiencing an issue. It takes courage and bravery to “grow up” and become the person you are meant to be. But it takes even more courage and even more bravery to take a stand for yourself and demand from life the things that you <em>actua</em>lly want. But it is worth it. Because your desires and life goals matter. Not “one day”. But today. “Hell is life drying up”. And that happens when you stay stuck in the same old rut.</p>
<p><strong>So take your first step and prevent a life only half lived. </strong></p>
<p>_______________________________________</p>
<div style="height:50px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Other articles in the mental health in the law series</h4>
<p>Article 1: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-fear-around-mental-health-in-the-legal-world/">The fear around mental health in the legal world</a></p>
<p>Article 2: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-legal-sector-has-a-very-real-mental-health-problem/">The legal sector has a very real mental health problem</a></p>
<p>Article 3: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/mental-health-stop-collaborate-and-listen/">Mental Health: Stop, Collaborate & Listen</a></p>
<p>Article 5: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/law-firms-8-ways-to-improve-your-staff-mental-health/">Law firms: 8 practical ways to improve staff mental health</a></p>
<p>_______________________________________</p>
<div style="height:50px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" sizes="(max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px" srcset="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/BASIC-BALANCE.jpg 810w, https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/BASIC-BALANCE-300x167.png 300w, https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/BASIC-BALANCE-768x427.png 768w, https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/BASIC-BALANCE-500x278.png 500w, https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/BASIC-BALANCE-800x444.png 800w, https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/BASIC-BALANCE-480x267.png 480w" width="810" height="450" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/BASIC-BALANCE.jpg" alt=""></p>
<div class="wp-block-buttons aligncenter is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-text-color has-background no-border-radius" href="" style="background-color:#27281d" target="_blank" rel="https://bravingboundaries.com/work-with-me/individual-coaching/ noopener">BOOK YOUR BASIC BALANCE SESSION</a></div>
</div>
<p>_______________________________________</p>
<div class="wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-12 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex">
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<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Alicia-Koch-The-Legal-Belletrist-1024x1024-1.jpg" alt=""/></figure>
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<p>About the Co-author, <strong><em>Alicia Koch, Founder of The Legal Belletrist.</em></strong></p>
<p>Alicia, an admitted attorney with over 10 years PQE, and now a legal writer and researcher, has established The Legal Belletrist to assist companies (in different sectors) to write well-researched articles that speak to each company’s core business, enabling growth and commercialism. </p>
<p>Click here to visit <a href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist">The Legal Belletrist website</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Email: [email protected] </strong></p>
</div>
</div></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div><p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/10-tips-for-lawyers-who-want-to-improve-their-mental-health/">10 tips for lawyers who want to improve their mental health</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p>
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<slash:comments>3</slash:comments>
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<item>
<title>Mental Health: Stop, Collaborate and Listen</title>
<link>https://bravingboundaries.com/mental-health-stop-collaborate-and-listen/</link>
<comments>https://bravingboundaries.com/mental-health-stop-collaborate-and-listen/#comments</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[friedaL2020]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 18 Aug 2020 05:10:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Lawyer Life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[work-life balance]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[attorney life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[attorneys]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[big law]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[big law life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[braving boundaries]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[climbing the corporate ladder]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[good mental health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[junior lawyer]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[law]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[law life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[law recruiters]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[law students]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[lawyer life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[lawyer tips]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[lawyers]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[legal firm life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[legal life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[legal professionals]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[legal recruiter]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[legal recruitment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[legal secretaries]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[legal world]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mental health advocate]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mental health awareness]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mental health matters]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mental wellbeing]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mental wellness]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[self care]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[self-care]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[stop the stigma]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bravingboundaries.com/the-legal-sector-has-a-very-real-mental-health-problem-copy/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>Read about the interview Frieda Levycky, Founder of Braving Boundaries, had with Rob Green, CEO of GRM, about mental health in the legal sector. IT'S TIME TO STOP THE STIGMA!</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/mental-health-stop-collaborate-and-listen/">Mental Health: Stop, Collaborate and Listen</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h5 class="wp-block-heading" id="article-3-of-5-in-the-mental-health-in-the-law-series"><strong>Article 3 of 5 in the <em>Mental Health in the Law</em> series</strong></h5>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="mental-health-stop-collaborate-and-listen">Mental Health: Stop, Collaborate and Listen</h1>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="introduction">Introduction</h3>
<p>There is something beautifully refreshing about people talking openly about mental health in the <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-legal-sector-has-a-very-real-mental-health-problem/">legal sector</a>. Particularly their own experiences. Particularly men.</p>
<p>Last month, I had the pleasure of sitting down with <strong>Rob Green, CEO of <a href="https://www.grm.global/">GRM</a>,</strong> an international legal recruitment and research firm, to talk about mental health in the law.</p>
<p>The podcast will form part of GRM’s new, subscription-based portal called <strong>GLC</strong> or <strong>Global Legal Career </strong>which will formally launch in September 2020 (see further details about GLC below).</p>
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="GLC GRM Podcast, Frieda Levycky, Mental Health" width="1080" height="608" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H4PA69BvZW4?feature=oembed" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="stopping-the-stigma-around-mental-health">Stopping the stigma around mental health</h3>
<p>To be honest, when Rob asked me if I would be keen to be interviewed about mental health in the legal sector, I was pleasantly surprised. For those that don’t know Rob, he’s a former rugby player: strong, tall and confident – no one is going to mess with him.</p>
<p>Not exactly the image of someone I expected would want to discuss mental health matters in a public forum.</p>
<p>The thing is though, when you’ve had the courage:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>to acknowledge and address your own health issues (both physical and mental),</li><li>to see the impact work stress is having on other areas of your life,</li><li>to talk the issues through with someone</li><li>to take steps to change your work habits to create more balance in your life, and</li><li>to now live a life you love,</li></ul>
<p>you understand the importance of talking about mental health issues openly.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/stop-the-stigma-5-1024x311.png" alt="stop the stigma"/></figure>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="addressing-mental-health-issues-in-the-legal-sector">Addressing mental health issues in the legal sector</h3>
<p>The interview itself provides an interesting spin on mental health issues which affect legal professionals across the board (Business Development professionals, legal secretaries, recruiters etc.) – <strong>not just lawyers</strong>.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/interview-with-Rob.jpg" alt="mental health in the law interview - Rob Green GRM"/></figure>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4PA69BvZW4"><br> </a></p>
<p>Rob, as a legal recruiter and a service provider to law firms and corporate legal teams alike, and me, as a lawyer and coach for legal professionals, have experienced the legal sector from a variety of angles.</p>
<p>We’ve seen and, in some cases, experienced, a variety of incidents which have caused poor mental health issues in the legal sector to surface (for example, disregard for legal recruitment, bullying, <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/workplace-ostracism-addressing-the-intangible-office-bully/">ostracism</a>, over-work, harassment, under-valuing business development, lack of respect etc.).</p>
<p>Our combined 40 years of international legal experience is brought to the table in the interview.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/stop-the-stigma-4-1024x311-1.jpg" alt="stop the stigma - mental health"/></figure>
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<p>Being interviewed by Rob was an absolute joy! We touched on a range of topics including:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>what mental health actually is</li><li>how poor mental health manifests (e.g. stress, insomnia, chronic fatigue, anxiety, depression etc)</li><li>examples of situations which may have an impact on a lawyer’s mental health (pre- and post-COVID-19), both personal and professional</li><li>our own experiences with poor mental health and how we turned things around</li><li>some tips to bolster your mental health whilst working in the legal sector</li><li>some thoughts about the pressures likely to impact the legal sector following lock-down</li></ul>
<p>We ended up recording for 3 hours – there was so much to talk about (and boy, can we talk!) – but, the <a href="http://soundcast.co.za/">Soundcast</a> team worked their magic and cut us down to 90 minutes – a much more manageable listen for you – our audience.</p>
<p><strong>Click on the link below to listen to the discussion.</strong></p>
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="GLC GRM Podcast, Frieda Levycky, Mental Health" width="1080" height="608" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H4PA69BvZW4?feature=oembed" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="what-to-do-if-you-are-struggling-with-your-mental-health-currently">What to do if you are struggling with your mental health currently</h3>
<p>First of all, I want to let you know that there is nothing to be ashamed about. As we mentioned in the first of our articles this month: <em><a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-fear-around-mental-health-in-the-legal-world/">The fear around mental health in the legal world</a></em>, we all experience different levels of mental health throughout our lives (good, mediocre and poor). <strong>It’s not static. It’s not constant. It is certainly not a weakness.</strong></p>
<div style="height:50px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/MG_4218-683x1024.jpg" alt="Frieda Levycky - Life coach for lawyers"/></figure>
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<p>Poor mental health can manifest in a variety of ways and to varying degrees, including: stress, anxiety, changes in mood / behaviour, erratic thinking, impulsive actions, low self-esteem, feelings of loneliness, insomnia, burnout (those are just a few).</p>
<p>It leaves you drained, emotional, hyper-sensitive or numb, and to be honest, sometimes, quite teary-eyed.</p>
<p><strong>Nothing feels under control. </strong><strong style="font-size: 15px;">Nothing feels balanced.</strong></p>
<p>You know this isn’t healthy for you, but often there seems to be very little option to change the status quo, without causing further damage to other areas of your life. <em><strong>Where do you even start?</strong></em></p>
<div style="height:50px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="here-are-a-couple-of-options"><strong>Here are a couple of options:</strong></h4>
<p><a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/bring-back-balance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BRING BACK BALANCE</a></p>
<p><a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/work-with-me/individual-coaching/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1-TO-1 COACHING</a></p>
<p>What is the point of being a successful lawyer, if it’s costing you your health and happiness? </p>
<p>You’ve worked hard to create this standard of life, so let’s help you start living and loving it by bringing some balance back between the professional and the personal.<b> </b></p>
<p>If you’re at the point where enough is enough, you want to start living a personal and professional life you genuinely love (you’ve worked hard enough for it), and want support in making the necessary changes, that’s where I come in.</p>
<p><a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/book-a-call/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Book a discovery session</a>. Let’s have a chat, see if we are a good fit, and pull a plan together to quash those limiting beliefs and enable you to live a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life, both inside and outside the office.</p>
<p>_______________________________________</p>
<div style="height:50px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="a-little-more-about-global-legal-career">A little more about Global Legal Career</h3>
<p>As I mentioned above, in September 2020, GRM is launching a new, subscription-based portal called <strong>GLC </strong>or <strong>Global Legal Career</strong>.</p>
<p>For a small monthly fee, the legal community around the world will be able to access webcasts, podcasts, research papers, CV and cover letter templates and interview assistance through the online GLC platform. In addition, users can practise mock video interviews, attend career guidance webinars, and book one-on-one sessions with legal market career specialists and receive updates of the latest global job openings.</p>
<p>Users will also be able to showcase their skills and meet other members of the community, from around the world, who can help facilitate new career paths and global mobility, and much much more. Needless to say, mental health awareness in the legal sector will be a topic which will be showcased through the GLC platform.</p>
<p>_______________________________________</p>
<div style="height:50px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>
<h5 class="wp-block-heading" id="other-articles-in-the-mental-health-in-the-law-series">Other articles in the <em>Mental Health in the Law</em> series</h5>
<p>Article 1: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-fear-around-mental-health-in-the-legal-world/">The fear around mental health in the legal world</a></p>
<p>Article 2: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-legal-sector-has-a-very-real-mental-health-problem/">The legal sector has a very real mental health problem</a></p>
<p>Article 4: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/10-tips-for-lawyers-who-want-to-improve-their-mental-health/">10 Tips for lawyers who want to improve their mental health</a></p>
<p>Article 5: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/law-firms-8-ways-to-improve-your-staff-mental-health/">Law firms: 8 practical ways to improve staff mental health</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/mental-health-stop-collaborate-and-listen/">Mental Health: Stop, Collaborate and Listen</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p>
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<item>
<title>The legal sector has a very real mental health problem</title>
<link>https://bravingboundaries.com/the-legal-sector-has-a-very-real-mental-health-problem/</link>
<comments>https://bravingboundaries.com/the-legal-sector-has-a-very-real-mental-health-problem/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[friedaL2020]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Sun, 09 Aug 2020 02:10:04 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Lawyer Life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[attorney life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[attorneys]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[big law]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[big law life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[braving boundaries]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[climbing the corporate ladder]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[good mental health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[law]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[law life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[law students]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[lawyer life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[lawyer tips]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[lawyers]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[legal firm life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[legal life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[legal world]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mental health advocate]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mental health awareness]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mental health matters]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mental wellbeing]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mental wellness]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[self care]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[stop the stigma]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bravingboundaries.com/the-fear-around-mental-health-in-the-legal-world-copy/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<p>If you ever doubted that the legal sector had a mental health problem, it’s time to look at the statistics. Click here to read the latest blog by guest writer Alicia Koch, Founder of The Legal Belletrist</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-legal-sector-has-a-very-real-mental-health-problem/">The legal sector has a very real mental health problem</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p>
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h5 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Article 2 of 5 in the <em>Mental Health in the Law</em> series</strong></h5>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">THE LEGAL SECTOR HAS A VERY REAL MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEM</h2>
<h6 class="wp-block-heading"><em>An article by Alicia Koch, Founder of <a href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist">The Legal Belletrist</a> </em></h6>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Introduction</h3>
<p>Let’s start off with some sobering facts:</p>
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<p>In the <strong>United States</strong>, the 2016 <a href="https://www.americanbar.org/">American Bar Association</a> together with the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation in a study of attorneys (see “<em>Studies on Well-Being in the Profession</em>”) underscored mental health concerns in the legal profession. Of the attorneys surveyed: <strong style="font-size: 15px;">28%</strong> reported experiencing symptoms of <strong style="font-size: 15px;">depression</strong>, <strong style="font-size: 15px;">19%</strong> reported symptoms of <strong style="font-size: 15px;">anxiety</strong>, <strong style="font-size: 15px;">23%</strong> experienced symptoms of <strong style="font-size: 15px;">stress</strong> and <strong style="font-size: 15px;">21%</strong> qualified as <strong style="font-size: 15px;">problem drinkers.</strong></p>
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<p>In the <strong>United Kingdom</strong>, <a href="https://www.lawcare.org.uk/">LawCare</a> revealed that: <strong style="font-size: 15px;">26%</strong> of all lawyers that called into their helpline were suffering from <strong style="font-size: 15px;">stress</strong>, <strong style="font-size: 15px;">12%</strong> were suffering from bullying and a further <strong style="font-size: 15px;">12%</strong> of all callers suffered from <strong style="font-size: 15px;">depression</strong>.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/3-1024x1024.png" alt=""/></figure>
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<p>In a further article titled <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-08-15/study-finds-high-rates-anxiety-depression-in-legal-profession/11412832">Lawyers experience high rates of anxiety and depression</a>, it was found that in <strong>Australia and New Zealand</strong> that – <em>“A survey of 200 legal professionals across Australia and New Zealand revealed a high percentage of employees at small and medium-sized law firms had experienced depression and stress in the workplace. An overwhelming <strong>85 per cent</strong> of respondents said they had experienced <strong>anxiety</strong>, or knew someone close to them in the workplace who had. More than <strong>60 per cent</strong> of respondents said they had experienced <strong>depression</strong>, or knew someone close to them in the workplace who had”.</em></p>
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<p>And lastly in <strong>South Africa</strong>, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (“<a href="http://www.sadag.org/"><em>SADAG</em></a>”) has revealed that one in every five people will suffer from a mental illness. Every 24-hours in South Africa, 22 people commit suicide and 220 people attempt suicide. 9.5% of teen deaths are due to suicide. SADAG’s research has also revealed that employees are taking more than 18 days off work due to depression but are reluctant to disclose depression as a reason for sick leave due to the stigma associated with the condition. <strong><em>The statistics around lawyer specific mental health concerns have yet to be quantified.</em> </strong>And that is a scary thing considering the stigma that is currently attached with mental health issues.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Stopping the stigma</h3>
<p>Mental health is always spoken about in hushed tones and usually behind closed doors. As if it is something to be ashamed of. But, why?</p>
<p>There is nothing weak about mental health. As we discussed in last week’s article: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-fear-around-mental-health-in-the-legal-world/">The fear about mental health in the legal world</a> – we all have a level of mental health and that level of health (as with our physical health) fluctuates over time.</p>
<p>So why does the term “<em><strong>mental</strong></em>” trigger such awkwardness and discomfort in so many of us?</p>
<p>Perhaps our youth has something to do with it?</p>
<p>Growing up, the slang term <a href="https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=mental">“mental”</a> was used quite often. When you heard that a party was “mental”, you automatically assumed that it was wild and that things got out of hand. Similarly, if someone were to call another person “mental”, you immediately kept your distance at the connotation that the person was, in fact, crazy (not that we were qualified to ascertain anyone’s state of mind).</p>
<p>But the actual definition of ‘mental’ is nothing sinister – it literally means <em><strong>“related to the mind”</strong>.</em> However, when you put the words mental and health together, we are lead to something far more complex, far more important, but sadly, less spoken about.</p>
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<p><em><strong>Isn’t it time to reshape how we, as a society, view mental health and the associated issues? Especially in the legal profession.</strong></em></p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Perception of the legal industry</h3>
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<p>I have one image for you – a suit. Picture Harvey Specter in his expensive designer suit, working late into the night demanding excellence in everything he does. And from everyone he works with. And now picture someone you know who is exactly like this. I bet someone popped into your head almost immediately. Maybe it was yourself.</p>
<p>The sad reality is, this is how the general public believe legal professionals are <em>supposed</em> to act. Never mind how junior lawyers<em> expect</em> themselves to act. And this expectation continues long into most legal professional’s lives.</p>
<p>Truthfully, we can all agree that this image of absolute strength and perfection is exactly how lawyers are represented in mainstream media – workaholics, perfectionists (and we touch on this subject in <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-perfectionist-problem/">The Perfectionist Problem</a>), practitioners with meticulous attention to detail, rational and invulnerable to stress.</p>
<p><em><strong>Basically assumed to be bullet proof. </strong></em></p>
<p><em><strong>Almost superhuman. </strong></em></p>
<p>And society, generally, does not consider how legal professionals may <em>in reality</em> be affected by the work they do. Neither do the lawyers themselves. At least, they would never admit to being affected by their work out loud. And this is an impossible standard.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What is mental health?</h3>
<p>According to <a href="https://www.mentalhealth.gov/basics/what-is-mental-health">Mental Health.gov</a>, a person’s mental health refers to their <em>“emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act”</em>.</p>
<p>And in the legal profession, a person’s emotional, psychological and social well-being is not (very often) considered to be top of mind. We are taught to believe that you need to <strong><em>“get on with it”</em></strong>. <strong><em>Harden up. Have thicker skin.</em> </strong>At least, that’s what I was told. Often.</p>
<p>The workplace, especially in law firms, is no place for sensitivity. But is being affected by something necessarily just being sensitive? And even if you are sensitive, does that mean there is no place for you in a law firm? That shouldn’t be the case. And yet, as we are constantly lead to believe, seemingly is. At least on the face of it.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The reality of mental health in the legal industry</h3>
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<p>An overwhelming majority of legal professionals believe their mental well-being is worse off as a result of their chosen career, an <a href="https://www.law.com/2020/02/19/by-the-numbers-the-state-of-mental-health-in-the-legal-industry/">in-depth Mental Health and Substance Abuse survey</a> of law firm lawyers and staff suggests.</p>
<p>But, that’s only the tip of the iceberg. There are far more alarming articles and studies to illustrate the above statement.</p>
<p>In an article titled <a href="https://thepractice.law.harvard.edu/article/it-is-time-to-normalize-mental-health-check-ups/">It is Time to Normalize Mental Health Check-Ups</a>, they state that mental health has become a critical issue –</p>
<p><em>“Mental health has become a significant topic of discussion and study for legal professionals as of late, and for good reason. Mental health has a critical impact on the general population—in 2018 alone, 47.6 million adults in the United States experienced symptoms that met criteria for a diagnosable mental illness. This equates to 19.1 percent of the population, or one in five adults. Further, depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide.</em></p>
<p><em>Findings further suggest that <strong>legal professionals may experience mental health issues at a rate higher than other adults in the United States</strong>. This, along with several recent deaths of legal professionals by suicide, have sparked a long-overdue conversation about mental wellness in the legal community.”</em></p>
<p>Similarly, in an article titled <a href="https://www.leadersleague.com/en/news/mental-health-in-the-legal-industry-it-s-time-to-take-action">Mental Health in the Legal Industry: It’s Time to Take Action</a>, they state the following –</p>
<p><em>“According to the World Health Organization (<strong>WHO</strong>), more than 300 million people are estimated to suffer from depression globally. Around the world, close to 800 000 people die due to suicide often caused by depression every year. And the legal industry is not immune. </em></p>
<p><em>A study conducted by Johns Hopkins University on the issue suggests that the prevalence of depression is closely related to a person’s professional occupation. Accordingly, <strong>lawyers are 3.6 times more likely on average to suffer from depression as people in other professions</strong>.”</em></p>
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<p>In a further American article titled <a href="https://www.law.com/2020/02/19/by-the-numbers-the-state-of-mental-health-in-the-legal-industry/">By the Numbers: The State of Mental Health in the Legal Industry</a>, they found that <em>“<strong>31.2% of more than 3,800 respondents feel they are depressed, 64% feel they have anxiety, 10.1% feel they have an alcohol problem and 2.8% feel they have a drug problem</strong>.”</em></p>
<p>Lastly in an article titled <a href="https://www.lawgazette.co.uk/wellbeing/moving-mental-health-to-the-top-of-the-legal-agenda/5104324.article">Moving mental health to the top of the legal agenda</a>, they refer to a study that states that –</p>
<p><em>“According to research carried out by Dr Rebecca Michalak of the University of Queensland: <strong>‘Lawyers suffer from significantly lower levels of psychological and psychosomatic health wellbeing than other professionals’.</strong> Add to this a global pandemic threatening the lives of loved ones, job insecurity and economic instability</em>, <em>and we have a rather large melting pot ready to explode.”</em></p>
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<p>In the above-mentioned article –</p>
<p><em>“According to Mental Health First Aid England over 80% of managers admit to prejudice against employees struggling with their mental health and only about 20% of companies provide training to managers around the subject. I dare say, law firms lag behind in the main. In fact, I recently asked a senior partner from a Magic Circle firm what they do to support mental health and she responded: <strong>‘Driven people like us don’t suffer with those sort of issues’.</strong> Sadly, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Though many efforts of engagement within the legal profession have been reported, particularly during this particular crisis, there is still a long way to go and the profession must not lose sight of this”.</em></p>
<p>But, admitting concerns over your mental health is not a sign of weakness or inability. This is an antiquated notion that needs to change. And quickly.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">So how does your work affect you?</h3>
<p>In an article titled <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-legal-profession-has-a-mental-health-problem-which-is-an-issue-for-everyone-113224">The legal profession has a mental health problem – which is an issue for everyone</a>, a study was conducted in which legal professionals discussed how their work affects them –</p>
<p><em>”Participants have disclosed a number of issues which they felt had arisen from their work, including</em> <em>experiencing high levels of stress or witnessing it in others.</em></p>
<p><em>For example, they often speak about the long hours they do, the high billing requirements they have, their large caseloads and the negative effect that these have on them. They also speak of the alienating cultures in which they work and which put them in competition with their colleagues.</em></p>
<p><em>Many practitioners also speak directly of how the cultures of some legal environments mean that well-being is often not a concern. The focus for many law firms is on fee earning, growth and productivity. Well-being is therefore viewed as irrelevant. For example, practitioners have told us that there is a culture of “you have got to get on with it” when dealing with stressful or emotionally demanding work.</em></p>
<p><em>Some have suggested that there is a stigma within the profession with regards to mental health and that highlighting well-being issues could be perceived as a sign of weakness and become a barrier to promotion. Participants have also discussed a traditional lack of investment into supporting the mental health of lawyers.</em></p>
<p><em>Other lawyers have told us about the negative impacts of working with traumatised individuals, hearing traumatic narratives, or working with distressing evidence – for example, material evidence relating to serious crimes or road traffic accidents. Some have discussed the lasting effect that some cases had on them because of their distressing nature.”</em></p>
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<p>And I am certain that many of you reading this article can relate to some (if not all) of the issues listed in the above article –</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>long hours</li><li>always being on call and unable to disconnect</li><li>high billing requirements</li><li>high caseloads</li><li>competition between colleagues</li><li>a culture of “get on with it”</li><li>impacts of traumatic cases on your well-being.</li></ul>
<p>All leading to high stress levels, anxiety, depression, burn-out and in some cases substance abuse.</p>
<p>It is evidently not an experience limited to certain parts of the world. It is a feeling felt globally in the legal profession. <strong><em>A pandemic, if you will.</em></strong> And it needs to be addressed. More importantly, legal professionals need to feel comfortable enough to be able to speak about their personal concerns around their own mental health. Freely and openly.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Where to from here?</h3>
<p>We are starting to see many firms take a more proactive approach to managing mental health providing access to services such as coaching, counselling, mental health first aiders and employee assistance programmes (<strong>EAPs</strong>), to support individuals with mental health issues. Areas that impact mental health such as financial wellbeing, diet, alcohol intake and sleep and developing programmes to address these specific issues are also becoming top of mind.</p>
<p>An organization such as <a href="https://www.lawcare.org.uk/">LawCare</a> in the UK, promotes and supports good mental health and wellbeing in the legal community. In an article titled <a href="https://blogs.thomsonreuters.com/legal-uk/2018/05/02/the-mental-health-stigma-how-the-legal-industry-is-responding/">The mental health stigma: how the legal industry is responding</a>, they state that whilst awareness around mental health has increased dramatically in recent years, the legal industry still faces challenges –</p>
<p><em>“Meanwhile, statistics revealed by the charity LawCare, highlighted that calls from lawyers to its helpline has reached a ‘record high’. The charity received nearly 900 calls last year from 616 callers – representing an 11 percent rise compared to 2016. Nearly half of the solicitors and barristers who called in for help cited <strong>depression (17 percent)</strong> and <strong>workplace stress (27 percent)</strong> as the reason. Other problems included disciplinary concerns, anxiety, and bereavement, financial problems, bullying and harassment, chronic illness, alcohol and drugs, career development and relationship issues.</em></p>
<p><em>Elizabeth Rimmer, CEO of LawCare, said the growing number of calls to the helpline is rising every year and is showing no sign of abating. “Life in the law can be challenging. Long hours, a competitive environment, heavy workload and pressure to meet billing targets can contribute to stress and mental health issues”, said Rimmer”.</em></p>
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<p>Law societies around the world are starting to recognise the alarming trends facing the legal profession today, with decisive steps being taken to address mental health in the workplace. For example in the UK, <em>“</em><a href="https://www.lawcare.org.uk/news/legal-professions-wellbeing-taskforce-roundtable-event#:~:text=The%20Legal%20Professions%20Wellbeing%20Taskforce%20is%20a%20cross%2Dprofession%20taskforce,wellbeing%20across%20the%20legal%20community."><em>The Legal Professions Wellbeing Taskforce</em></a><em>” </em>has been established to promote and support mental health and well-being in the legal community.</p>
<p>So whilst progression around mental health issues is relatively slow in the legal profession, at least there is a shift in the right direction, providing some light at the end of the tunnel.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Final thoughts for today</h3>
<p>Now more than ever before, as people navigate their way through the emotional trauma, stress, anxiety and depression arising from the Covid-19 pandemic, there seems to be a clearer understanding of how these traumas can negatively impact the lives of both themselves as well as those around them. How these traumas can materially affect their mental health.</p>
<p>For some people, it is the first time that they have been ready to admit, out loud, that they are suffering from some kind of mental health issue. <strong>And that is progress.</strong></p>
<p>Perhaps as we start with the healing process following the pandemic, we should use this new knowledge to continue encouraging people (and businesses) to talk freely and openly about mental health in the work place. Pivot off of it – make policies, protect people, encourage discussion and promote overall mental wellbeing.</p>
<p>Wouldn’t it be nice if the phrase <em><strong>“are you mental?”</strong></em> was no longer associated with negative connotations that are currently invoked when hearing the phrase, but rather that <em><strong>“are you mental?” quite simply meant, – is your mental health ok?</strong></em></p>
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<p>This thought-provoking and heartfelt article was written by <strong>Alicia Koch</strong>, <strong>Founder of The Legal Belletrist</strong>.</p>
<p>Alicia, an admitted attorney with over 10 years PQE, and now a legal writer and researcher, has established The Legal Belletrist to assist companies (in different sectors) to write well researched articles that speak to each company’s core business, enabling growth and commercialism. </p>
<p>Click here to visit <a href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist">The Legal Belletrist website</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Email: [email protected] </strong></p>
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<p>______________________________</p>
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>FOR LAW FIRMS / CORPORATES</strong></h4>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>FOR INDIVIDUAL LEGAL PROFESSIONALS</strong></h4>
<p>If you are interested in or responsible for bringing greater awareness around mental health to your law firm / corporate, let’s work together to create a bespoke workshop or webinar for your staff. </p>
<p>If you are a legal professional struggling with your mental health at the moment, give me a shout. Let me help you to reduce that stress so that you can start living and loving your life, both professionally and personally.</p>
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<p>______________________________</p>
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<h5 class="wp-block-heading">Other articles in the <em>Mental Health in the Law</em> series</h5>
<p>Article 1: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-fear-around-mental-health-in-the-legal-world/">The fear around mental health in the legal world</a></p>
<p>Article 3: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/mental-health-stop-collaborate-and-listen/">Mental Health: Stop, Collaborate & Listen</a></p>
<p>Article 4: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/10-tips-for-lawyers-who-want-to-improve-their-mental-health/">10 Tips for lawyers who want to improve their mental health</a></p>
<p>Article 5: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/law-firms-8-ways-to-improve-your-staff-mental-health/">Law Firms: 8 practical ways to improve staff mental health</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-legal-sector-has-a-very-real-mental-health-problem/">The legal sector has a very real mental health problem</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p>
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<title>The fear around mental health in the legal world</title>
<link>https://bravingboundaries.com/the-fear-around-mental-health-in-the-legal-world/</link>
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<dc:creator><![CDATA[friedaL2020]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 03 Aug 2020 04:30:39 +0000</pubDate>
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<description><![CDATA[<p>What is it with the term 'mental health' that causes so much discomfort for the legal world?<br />
This article aims to take things back to basics. We’re going to look at what mental health is, the reasons for our discomfort around mental health issues and how mental health can be displayed in the legal environment. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-fear-around-mental-health-in-the-legal-world/">The fear around mental health in the legal world</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p>
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<h5 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Article 1 of 5 in the <em>Mental Health in the Law</em> series</strong></h5>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>What is it with the term ‘mental health’ that causes so much discomfort for the legal world?</em></h3>
<p>This article aims to take things back to basics. We’re going to look at what mental health is, the reasons for our discomfort around mental health issues and how mental health can be displayed in the legal environment.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Introduction</h3>
<p>If you ever ask a lawyer what they like most about their job, I’m certain you’ll hear variants of the following:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>It’s intellectually stimulating</li><li>It’s mentally challenging</li><li>I love the adrenaline of thinking on my feet</li><li>I like figuring out problems / connecting the dots</li><li>I like being able to explain complex issues in an easy way</li></ul>
<p>We’re a mental lot! Our brains are our prized commodity and our mental aptitude is paramount to our success in the legal industry. Afterall, our identity, our careers, our livelihoods are all dependent on it.</p>
<p>It seems quite ironic that, for an industry which interprets and dissects words on a daily basis, that the term ‘mental health’ should cause such discomfort.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Why is mental health so stigmatised?</h3>
<p>No one is born with an affliction towards the words ‘mental health’. It is something which has been learned as we have grown up.</p>
<p>As children, the phrase: <strong><em>“Are you mental?”</em></strong> was often bandied around the playground. A bout of giggles usually followed, except from the poor little kid at whom the comment was directed.</p>
<p>From an early age, even if subconsciously, the word ‘mental’ was developing a negative association to being crazy; mad; out of control.</p>
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<p>Back in my day, there were no classes around mindfulness or mental health. And, in general, very few open conversations around mental health were held in the home environment either.</p>
<p>The snippets of adult conversations which we did overhear around a family member’s mental health were, more often than not, halted when we entered the room – merely stigmatising further this already negative notion we felt towards mental health.</p>
<p>For many, this lack of education and discussion around mental health continued into adult life. Mental health was still rarely spoken about in open terms, limiting the opportunity to allay the unwarranted, negative connotations associated with mental health, and gain any real understanding as to what mental health actually is.</p>
<p>When you pair that misinformation around mental health with a legal industry that prides itself on its mental prowess, is it any wonder that there is a reluctance to discuss any health issue which could seemingly threaten its most precious asset?</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">How people react to mental health issues</h3>
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<p>You’ll have, no doubt, seen the following situations play out in the work place:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The colleague who yells at you for not being tough enough for the law when you are stressed from overwork (<em><strong>fight</strong></em>).</li><li>The boss who can’t find his words when you try to explain that you have just had a panic attack (<em><strong>freeze</strong></em>).</li><li>The friend who avoids you when you say you are struggling with depression – as if you can catch it (<em><strong>flight</strong></em>).</li></ul>
<p>These are fear reactions: <strong>fight, flight or freeze</strong>, resulting from a feeling of inadequacy to address the issues at hand and the preconceived ideas around mental health as a whole.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">So, what is mental health?</h3>
<p>The World Health Organisation (<strong>WHO</strong>) defines mental health as:</p>
<p>“a<em> state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.”</em></p>
<p>As further described by the Western Cape Government of South Africa:</p>
<p><em>“‘Mental health’ is not merely about an absence of mental illness, but rather the presence of mental health and well-being.”</em></p>
<p>So, let’s get this clear:</p>
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<p>Nothing too scary about that, hey?</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Good mental health</h3>
<p>When a person is experiencing a good level of mental health, they are able to fulfil a number of key day-to-day functions and activities.</p>
<p>The Mental Health Foundation in the UK describes good mental health as, amongst other things [1]:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>the ability to learn</li><li>the ability to feel, express and manage a range of positive and negative emotions</li><li>the ability to form and maintain good relationships with others</li><li>the ability to cope with and manage change and uncertainty.</li></ul>
<p>Research has proven that there is also a direct correlation between the physical health of a person and their mental health. [2]</p>
<p>We will talk later this month about how to improve and maintain good levels of mental health whilst working in the legal world.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What are the signs of someone struggling with mental health?</h3>
<p>Poor mental health can manifest in a number of ways and to varying degrees. Some examples are highlighted below:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Stress</li><li>Anxiety</li><li>Changes in mood / behaviour</li><li>Erratic thinking</li><li>Impulsive actions</li><li>Controlled / uncontrollable eating</li></ul>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Panic attacks</li><li>Low self-esteem</li><li>Exaggerated sense of self-worth</li><li>Use of controlled substances</li><li>Reliance on alcohol</li><li>Anger</li></ul>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Feelings of loneliness</li><li>Sleep problems</li><li>Burnout</li><li>Becoming quiet / withdrawn</li><li>Suicidal feelings</li><li>Lack of self-worth</li></ul>
<p>Do any of those sound familiar?</p>
<p>I’d hazard a guess, that at some point in every lawyer’s life, the words: “<strong><em>I’m stressed</em></strong>” will leave their lips. With demanding clients, long hours and a competitive working environment, it’s part and parcel of working in the legal world.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The difference between mental health v mental illness</h3>
<p>Before continuing, it is important to understand that there is a clear distinction between mental health and mental illness (even though these concepts are often used interchangeably).</p>
<p>Mental illness includes a range of conditions for which there are standard criteria used to diagnose them (e.g. depression, anxiety, substance abuse). A mental illness significantly affects how a person feels, thinks, behaves and interacts with other people. [3]</p>
<p>In other words:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>you can have good mental health (e.g. a positive outlook, feeling capable of dealing with day to day issues) but be diagnosed with a mental illness (e.g. clinical depression).</li><li>you can have poor mental health (e.g. struggling with insomnia and stress), but not be diagnosed with a mental illness (e.g. alcoholism).</li></ul>
<p>Needless to say, poor mental health, if not addressed, can become a mental illness.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/mental-health-illness-768x1024.png" alt="mental health v mental illness"/></figure>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">How do we effect change towards mental health in the workplace?</h3>
<p>So, with the knowledge that mental health is a state of well-being, something which we all possess, and not something to fear, how do we change the attitude towards mental health in the workplace?</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/mental-health-banner-2-1-1024x311.png" alt="mental health banner"/></figure>
<p>We have to:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>educate the legal community about mental health</li><li>encourage open conversations about different types of mental health issues</li><li>practice good mental health</li><li>acknowledge and admit when we are struggling and seek help when we need it</li><li>lean-in to the discomfort of learning a new way of working – where mental and physical health are promoted and protected</li></ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Frieda-Levycky-main-photo-centred-1001x1024.jpg" alt="Braving Boundaries - Frieda Levycky"/></figure>
<p>If you have read the “<a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/my-story/">my story</a>” page on the website, you will know that I readily admit to having struggled with stress, insomnia and low self-esteem.</p>
<p>I worked through my struggles with a counsellor and then a coach. I still work with my coach on a regular basis, dedicating an hour every couple of weeks to talk through any imminent concerns I may have and protecting my mental health.</p>
<p>It’s not made me weaker, any less capable or damaged my career. Quite the contrary in fact.</p>
<p><strong>It’s made me stronger, more self-reliant and more aware.</strong></p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Final thoughts for today</h3>
<p>As there is so much to talk about on mental health in the legal world, Braving Boundaries is dedicating August to this topic. Keep your eyes open for the weekly articles and add us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to keep up with the daily discussions. Click on the buttons at the top left-hand corner of the page.</p>
<p>Make August the month you really educate yourself around mental health in the legal world. </p>
<p><strong>Mental Health Matters.</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Click here for the next article: <em><a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-legal-sector-has-a-very-real-mental-health-problem/">“The legal sector has a very real mental health problem”</a>.</em></li></ul>
<p>_______________________________</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>FOR LAW FIRMS / CORPORATES</strong></h4>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>FOR INDIVIDUAL LEGAL PROFESSIONALS</strong></h4>
<p>If you are interested in or responsible for bringing greater awareness around mental health to your law firm / corporate, let’s work together to create a bespoke workshop or webinar for your staff. </p>
<p>If you are a legal professional struggling to get your mental health back on track at the moment, give me a shout. Let me help you to reduce that stress so that you can start living and loving your life, both professionally and personally.</p>
<p><a role="button" href="https://calendly.com/bravingboundaries"><br>BOOK A CORPORATE DISCOVERY CALL<br></a><br><a role="button" href="https://calendly.com/bravingboundaries"><br>BOOK A DISCOVERY CALL<br></a></p>
<p>_______________________________</p>
<h5 class="wp-block-heading">Other articles in the <em>Mental Health and the Law</em> series</h5>
<p>Article 2: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-legal-sector-has-a-very-real-mental-health-problem/">The legal sector has a very real mental health problem</a></p>
<p>Article 3: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/mental-health-stop-collaborate-and-listen/">Mental Health: Stop, Collaborate & Listen</a></p>
<p>Article 4: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/10-tips-for-lawyers-who-want-to-improve-their-mental-health/">10 Tips for lawyers who want to improve their mental health</a></p>
<p>Article 5: <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/law-firms-8-ways-to-improve-your-staff-mental-health/">Law firms: 8 practical ways to improve staff mental health</a></p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">References</h3>
<p><em>[1] <a href="https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/your-mental-health/about-mental-health/what-good-mental-health#:~:text=Good%20mental%20health%20is%20characterised,maintain%20good%20relationships%20with%20others">“What is good mental health?”</a> </em>by the UK Mental Health Foundation</p>
<p><em>[2]</em> Galderisi S, Heinz A, Kastrup M, Beezhold J, Sartorius N. “<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4471980/"><em>Toward a new definition of mental health”.</em> </a>World Psychiatry. 2015;14(2):231-233. doi:10.1002/wps.20231</p>
<p><em>[3] <a href="https://www.nib.com.au/the-checkup/healthy-living/difference-between-mental-health-and-mental-illness#:~:text=Mental%20illness%20is%20different%20to,and%20interacts%20with%20other%20people.">“Mental Health v Mental Illness”</a></em> by Newcastle Industrial Benefits</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/the-fear-around-mental-health-in-the-legal-world/">The fear around mental health in the legal world</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p>
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