For many, the now-concluded holiday season is a time of joy, celebration and family.
For attorneys, however, it often brings a unique mix of challenges. The pressure to close out the year wrapping up cases, meeting client expectations and balancing a heavy workload can turn what should be a time of rest into a period of significant stress.
The holidays, instead of providing a chance to recharge, can sometimes magnify the mental and emotional toll of our demanding profession.
This time of year can be particularly tough for attorneys who already struggle with mental health. Research shows that legal professionals face disproportionately high levels of stress, anxiety, depression and substance abuse.
According to the American Bar Association, nearly one-third of attorneys experience depression, and our profession continues to face higher rates of burnout compared to most others.
Add holiday expectations, family dynamics, festive obligations and the pressure to look happy and cheerful when you might not feel that way and it becomes even harder to manage.
As a legal community, it’s important that we recognize these challenges and support each other in facing them.
Recognizing the signs of mental health struggles
Mental health issues often don’t look the same for everyone. Sometimes the signs are obvious, but often, they’re subtle.
Here are some key indicators that attorneys, whether yourself or a colleague, may be struggling:
• Irritability or anxiety including shorter tempers, increased frustration and a heightened sense of stress during challenging situations.
• Depression or mood swings including persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness or a noticeable drop in energy.
• Burnout symptoms such as physical and emotional exhaustion that makes it difficult to engage fully with clients, colleagues or even family.
• Difficulty concentrating like having trouble staying organized, making decisions or focusing on tasks.
• Physical symptoms can be headaches, stomach issues and disruptions to sleep that often are linked to unaddressed mental health concerns.
Strategies for managing holiday stress
While the holidays bring additional pressures, there are practical ways to reduce stress and protect your mental health during this season.
• Set realistic boundaries: It’s easy to overcommit both professionally and socially this time of year. Learn to say “no” when needed.
Setting clear limits with clients, colleagues and family members can help create the breathing room necessary for rest and recovery.
• Prioritize self-care: Attorneys are notorious for putting themselves last. Make self-care a priority.
Get enough sleep, exercise regularly and eat well. Even small changes like taking a walk, listening to music, or reading for pleasure can help improve mood and reduce stress.
• Seek professional help: If stress, anxiety or depression feels overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional.
The Florida Bar, through the Florida Lawyers Helpline (833-351-9355) offers free confidential counseling services specifically for attorneys.
• Stay connected: Remember, you’re not alone. Reach out to trusted friends, colleagues or family members. Sharing your experiences, whether in casual conversation or through formal support groups, can help ease feelings of isolation.
• Practice gratitude and mindfulness: Small shifts in perspective can make a big difference. Taking time to express gratitude or practicing mindfulness exercises like deep breathing or meditation can help you refocus, reduce anxiety and stay present in the moment.
How the legal community can help
As a profession, we must do better to support attorneys through the unique challenges we face, particularly during the holidays.
Law firms, Bar associations and other organizations should prioritize mental health by providing resources, promoting open dialogue and encouraging a culture where seeking help is not only normalized but encouraged.
The holiday season is a good reminder that mental health is critical, not just for personal well-being but for professional success.
Attorneys who prioritize self-care, establish boundaries and seek support when needed will find it easier to navigate this season and enter the new year with renewed focus and energy.
Together, as a community, we can ensure that no attorney faces these challenges alone. With the right support, tools and understanding, we can make the holidays a bit less stressful for everyone.
Take care of yourselves, take care of each other and remember that sometimes, it’s OK to say “I’ve had enough” and take a break. You’ve earned it.
Christian George is managing partner in Akerman’s office in Jacksonville.