Suicide Prevention

Because lawyers experience depression at higher rates than other professions, there is also a higher likelihood that lawyers will experience suicidal thoughts and feelings.

Mental health issues in law schools have an impact on student retention, achievement and, ultimately, on bar admission. These concerns affect the future of the law profession. Below are some startling facts and statistics about depression and suicide in law school and among practicing lawyers.

• Lawyers are the most frequently depressed occupational group in the US, 3.6 times more likely to suffer from depression than non-lawyers.
• Depression and anxiety is cited by 26% of all lawyers who seek counseling.
• Lawyers rank 5th in incidence of suicide by occupation.
• Some studies have reported that 19% of lawyers suffer from statistically significant elevated levels of depression, according to a survey conducted on lawyers in Washington.
• Depression among law students is 8-9% prior to matriculation, 27% after one semester, 34% after 2 semesters, and 40% after 3 years.
• Stress among law students is 96%, compared to 70% in med students and 43% in graduate students.
• Psychological distress, dissatisfaction and substance abuse that begin in law school follow many graduates into practice.
• Chronic stress can trigger the onset of clinical depression.
• 15% of people with clinical depression commit suicide.