Addressing women’s mental health in the legal profession

Women make up 42 per cent of lawyers in British Columbia, with many facing ongoing challenges that impact their mental health and well-being. Ongoing issues such as chronic stress and work–life imbalance contribute to burnout and lower retention rates among women lawyers.

In 2022, the Health and Wellness Determinants of Legal Professionals in Canada study found that women in the legal profession experience high levels of psychological strain and work–life conflict. More than 70 per cent of women practicing law for under 15 years reported significant to very significant distress, highlighting the heightened vulnerability of early and mid-career lawyers. The study also found signs of possible alcohol dependence in 42 per cent of women and 36 per cent of men, underscoring the serious impact of chronic stress within the profession across. Nearly half of all legal professionals reported work–life conflict, with higher rates among women. Many expressed concern that starting a family could affect their work–life balance and one in three worried about the impact on their careers.

Maintaining mental health is essential for women in the legal profession, not only for their personal well-being but also for sustaining a fulfilling and successful career. By setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care and building supportive networks, women lawyers can better manage the pressures of the profession.

Ways to manage your mental health

• Set clear boundaries: Define your work hours and personal time to prevent burnout and maintain work-life balance.
• Prioritize self-care: Incorporate exercise, mindfulness, hobbies and adequate rest into your routine to reduce stress.
• Advocate for yourself: Communicate your workload and needs professionally to ensure your voice is heard.
• Build a support network: Connect with mentors or peers for guidance, encouragement and shared experiences.
• Seek professional help: Therapy or counseling can provide strategies for anxiety, depression or burnout.
• Develop coping strategies: Practice stress-management techniques such as meditation, journaling or breathing exercises.

How law firms can support legal professionals

• Address work-life balance: Engage with lawyers, particularly women, to understand their challenges and act on feedback to foster a supportive environment.
• Implement flexible work arrangements: Provide flexible hours and remote options for all legal professionals.
• Prepare for uncomfortable truths: Be open to tough feedback and have a plan to address issues constructively.
• Mentorship programs: Create strong programs for all associates, involve partners and ensure good mentor-mentee matches.

Free and confidential resources

• The Lawyers Assistance Program provides confidential support, counselling and referrals for lawyers, their families and support staff who need help with alcohol or substance dependencies, stress, depression and other mental health struggles.
• For mentorship opportunities, visit our Mentorship Program web page, where we provide a list of resources and information on mentorship programs, including the cost, conditions of eligibility, enrolment and registration information.
• Access free personal counselling and referral services through TELUS Health One for lawyers and articled students and their families who need help managing stress, relationships, work and other life challenges.
• Visit LifeSpeak, a digital wellness platform that gives lawyers anonymous access to videos, live Q&A web chats with mental health experts and articles that can accessed from your phone. LifeSpeak is an excellent option for those looking to invest in mental well-being without scheduling an appointment with a counsellor.
• If you have concerns or need help regarding discrimination or harassment, the Equity Advisor is a free and confidential resource that is available to all legal professionals and support staff. More information about the Equity Advisor is available on our website.