May 24, 2023

The practice of law can be competitive, stressful and often adversarial. Post-pandemic, many lawyers are experiencing burnout and are struggling to find balance between their work and personal obligations. These pressures can take a toll on one’s mental and physical well-being, and can make existing mental health conditions worse.

In 2022, a research team at Université de Sherbrooke conducted a National Study on the Health and Wellness Determinants of Legal Professionals in Canada. The study, which analyzed responses from 7,305 participants, found that 52.9 per cent of legal professionals in BC experience psychological distress and that 55.9 per cent of legal professionals in Canada are affected by burnout. Additionally, less than 45 per cent seek professional help, with the majority believing “it will pass.” The same study found that legal professionals are more likely to have suicidal thoughts compared to other professions in Canada.

The Law Society has partnered with the Continuing Legal Education Society of British Columbia (CLEBC) for a two-part, virtual Mental Health Forum. The events are an opportunity to bring the legal community together and advance the conversation on mental health.

The first session on June 23, 2023 will focus on the findings and recommendations in the report, personal stories and roundtable discussions.

The second session will take place on October 3, 2023 and will focus on strategies for improving mental health within the profession and legal organizations.

We encourage legal professionals to join the conversation to learn, share and recognize that you are not alone. To register for the event, please visit CLEBC’s website.