My guess is that the actual numbers are much higher. Lawyers are unlikely to admit to suicidal thoughts or depression in a self-report survey.
Some thoughts on dying by suicide...
Some thoughts on dying by suicide...
Three years ago, a friend of mine died by suicide. It was unexpected and devastating. He had been struggling with depression for a long time. But he was doing all the “right” things. On medication, seeing a therapist regularly, in touch with his doctors, surrounded by support.
When he died, suicide went from being an abstract concept to reality. Somehow knowing that he died in this way made it possible for anyone to get to this dark place. That no one is exempt — including me.
I realized there are pain so deep, so profound that one can inflict this ultimate act.
I miss him terribly. I sometimes have dreams where I see him.
I miss him terribly. I sometimes have dreams where I see him.
This is the ultimate consequence we pay as a profession when we do not make space to have conversations, make space for the entire experience of being a lawyer — being human.
It’s the consequence of having a stiff upper lip. Where vulnerability or weakness is never allowed. Where any sign of mental health issues can be used against you.
I so often hear this notion that lawyers should put their work, their clients before everything and everyone else.
I say, fuck that.
Be selfish. Put yourself first. Secure your own oxygen mask FIRST!
You can be the best lawyer possible by being as well as possible. 🧡
I say, fuck that.
Be selfish. Put yourself first. Secure your own oxygen mask FIRST!
You can be the best lawyer possible by being as well as possible. 🧡
