It has been recognised both nationally and internationally that stress and other mental health issues are acutely present in the legal profession. Solicitors can face tough and challenging situations on a daily basis.
What is too much stress?
While it is expected that we all experience some stress in our lives, everyone’s threshold for what amounts to too much stress is different. This is why it is important that you do not compare yourself to others. If you are finding it hard to cope and are worried about yourself due to low energy, tiredness, excessive eating/drinking, irritability, social withdrawal or disturbing thoughts; it is a good idea to talk to someone about it. Being proactive as soon as you suspect something will help you feel more in control of your situation.
As a first step, you can call LegalMind’s freephone number (1800 81 41 77) to speak to an accredited, qualified and experienced counsellor or psychotherapist at any time of the day or night. You can also find other independent supports by clicking on one of the websites listed below. Over time we will refresh and expand information signposted here to make sure that you have the most relevant and up to date supports on one page.
Mental health support for the legal community
LegalMind - A confidential, independent, low-cost mental health support launched in April 2020 for solicitors and their dependants. Speak to a mental health professional for in-the-moment support and to work out a plan that feels right for you.
Peer support in the legal community
- Consult a colleague - Free, confidential service for solicitors operating on a nationwide basis
Support for solicitors in difficulty with the Law Society
Support on matters of conduct
Emergency support
For emergency access to mental health care, contact an out-of-hours GP or attend an Accident and Emergency Department. This option is best considered in an acute psychiatric emergency and allows assessment as to whether hospitalisation may or may not be needed at that point in time.
Find a therapist
Support for different mental ill-health issues
- Aware - Support for individuals with a diagnosis of depression or bipolar as well as family members
- Grow - Support groups and education for the public in the area of mental health and recovery principles
- Turn2me - Online support including self-help, support groups and professional support
- St. Patrick's Mental Health Services - independent, not-for-profit mental health services
- Shine - Support, information and education such as counselling, support groups, family initiatives and email support
- Bodywhys - Support for those with eating disorders
- Social Anxiety Ireland - Support for those with social anxiety
Support for self-harm and or suicidality issues
- Pieta House - Free therapeutic support and Free 24/7 helpline (one to one)
- Samaritans - Free 24/7 helpline (one to one)
- HSE - National Office for Suicide Prevention
Support for bullying in the workplace
Support for addiction issues
Self-care support and trauma healing
Find financial support
Find support as a young member of the Law Society
The Society’s Younger Members Committee promotes the interests of members up to 7 years qualified. The Committee periodically holds seminars and events to support younger members. Contact can be made with the Committee through its Secretary Michelle Nolan.
Links to other websites
The material contained on this website is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute care, treatment or other professional advice. Links to other websites do not constitute an endorsement of that website by the Law Society of Ireland and the Society is not responsible for the contents of any websites referred to from this website.
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