Attorney Well-Being

Someone recently asked, “What can firms do beyond stating they support mental health and well-being (from the top) so that it actually reaches the boots on the ground?” (Or, some variation of this.)

My answer? I’m not sure they can.

Firms must make broad, sweeping statements of support for mental health and well-being.

They must create an environment in which it is okay for attorneys to (a) talk openly about mental health, well-being, and related topics and (b) take action on these fronts.

What comes next? The boots on the ground actually talking openly about and taking that action.

It requires attorneys to act on their own mental health and well-being.

It requires attorneys to lead by example.

I firmly believe that if firms create that environment, attorneys will do these things.

It is happening.

I’m seeing it, feeling it, being it.

Yes, it’s still slow.

But, with the right out-loud support from the top, the real change will come from the bottom.

I firmly believe this, I encourage it, and I welcome it.

#lawyerwellbeing #professionalwomen #legalissues