DEPRESSION

Lawyers experience depression at higher rates than members of other professions. According to a 2016 milestone study by the American Bar Association and the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, 28% of lawyers nationwide suffer from depression.

The South Carolina Bar prioritizes lawyer wellness and offers a variety of support and resources to its members.

SC Bar Services and Programs

This includes up to five free counseling sessions a year to all members who need help with any substance use disorder, emotional or stress-related issue. Call 1-855-321-4384, 24 hours a day/seven days a week and get referred to a counselor in your area for help with any issue that diminishes productivity and/or quality of life. Counselors providing these services are credentialed and trained to understand issues related to the legal profession. This service is strictly confidential.

Mental Health First Aid Training

This initiative, which the Bar debuted in 2019, is designed to help Bar members and law students spot and assist individuals who are developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. About 100 lawyers have been trained statewide.

If you are interested attending an upcoming training, contact Michael Abro at mabro@scbar.org.

DEPRESSION

Lawyers experience depression at higher rates than members of other professions. According to a 2016 milestone study by the American Bar Association and the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, 28% of lawyers nationwide suffer from depression.

The South Carolina Bar prioritizes lawyer wellness and offers a variety of support and resources to its members.

SC Bar Services and Programs

Mental Health First Aid Training

Articles & Stories from SC Bar Members

Articles from Other Bar Associations

Scholarly Articles