A statewide study examined the mental health of Illinois lawyers.
Stress and Burnout Among Lawyers
A national survey found that 21.7% of lawyers met thresholds for moderate-to-extremely severe depressive symptoms.
Diana Uchiyama discussed seeking help.
Gambling Emerges as a New Concern
The Illinois study examined gambling among lawyers in the state.
The National Council on Problem Gambling reported that nearly half of its helpline contacts came from young adults aged 18 to 34 and that contacts involving online and mobile app-based gambling had risen, according to the National Council on Problem Gambling.
Drinking and Depression Rates
A national survey by the American Bar Association's Commission on Lawyer Assistance Programs and Krill Strategies found that nearly 22% of lawyers screened positive for moderate-to-severe depression symptoms.
A separate nationwide survey of roughly 37,000 licensed lawyers by the American Bar Association and Krill Strategies found that 47.4% screened positive for high burnout, with 15.6% experiencing severe burnout, according to the American Bar Association. That same study found 41.8% of U.S. lawyers screened positive for risky drinking, while 21.7% met thresholds for moderate-to-extremely severe depressive symptoms, as reported by Medical Daily.
A Gap Between Expectation and Action
Nationally, 81% of surveyed attorneys said the legal industry should focus greater effort on reducing mental health and substance abuse issues, yet only 25.3% felt the profession was currently doing enough to support well-being, according to the American Bar Association. Researchers behind that project noted that structural and cultural barriers continue to deter lawyers from seeking care.
A 2016 study by the American Bar Association and the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, which surveyed 12,825 practicing attorneys, found that 20.6% screened positive for hazardous or potentially alcohol-dependent drinking.
Illinois' Support System and Rules
The Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission has well-being resources and on-demand CLE programs, according to the Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission.
The Illinois Lawyers Assistance Program provides support to lawyers.
