Mental Health & Law: £150M Funding Implications

Background

In light of the recent surge in mental health issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic over the past few years, the recent increase in funding is considered particularly crucial. While the increase in financial support is a positive development, it is crucial to bear in mind that some groups are more susceptible than others, and this includes students pursuing a law degree and practicing lawyers. In this article, we will explore the implications of the funding boost for mental health facilities in the UK, as well as the obstacles confronted by law students in preserving their emotional and psychological welfare.

Mental health has been a significant concern for the UK government for several years. According to the Mental Health Foundation, one in four people in the UK will experience a mental health problem in any given year. Furthermore, it is estimated that mental illness costs the UK economy approximately £118 billion per year. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this situation, with a significant increase in mental health problems due to social isolation, anxiety, and fear of the unknown.

In response to this challenge, the UK government has announced a boost in funding of £150 million in Mental Health Services. The funding will be allocated to mental health support teams in schools and colleges, which will provide early intervention for those who need it. It will also support the expansion of mental health services for adults, including crisis care, community mental health services, and digital mental health services.

Law Students and Mental Health

Several studies have shown that law students suffer through outsized mental health challenges. 

• According to a survey conducted by the Junior Lawyers Division in 2019, 93% of students, graduates, trainee solicitors and solicitors up to five years’ qualified said they had experienced stress, and almost half said that they had experienced poor mental health. These numbers are significantly higher than the national average.
• The pressure of law school can take a significant toll on students’ mental health, with the stress of deadlines, exams, and the demanding workload taking its toll. 
• Many law students also face financial strain, as law school is often expensive, and the job market can be competitive, adding to their anxiety levels.

Mental Health Support for Law Students

While the challenges facing law students are significant, universities and law schools have taken steps to provide mental health support to students. Some examples include:

• The University of Bristol Law School has implemented a “well-being week,” during which students participate in activities designed to promote mental health.
• The University of Law has developed a “student support hub” that provides students with access to mental health resources.
• The University of Manchester’s School of Law has implemented a mentoring program that pairs first-year law students with senior students who can provide academic and emotional support.

Implications of the Funding Boost

The boost in funding for Mental Health Services is excellent news for law students, as it will enable universities and law schools to provide more comprehensive mental health support to their students. 

• The funding can help support the expansion of digital mental health services, making it easier for students to access support remotely.
• It will also support the development of mental health support teams in schools and colleges, providing early intervention for those who need it.
• Furthermore, the boost in funding for mental health services will raise awareness of mental health issues and help reduce the stigma associated with seeking help for mental health problems. This, in turn, will encourage more law students to seek support when they need it, promoting better mental health outcomes.

Mental Health for Young Lawyers

Mental health is also a growing concern for young people pursuing a career in law. According to a report by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), one in four young people in the UK experience mental health problems, with half of all mental health problems starting by the age of 14. In addition, the study by the Junior Lawyers Division found that 93% of lawyers under the age of 35 experience stress, with 26% experiencing severe or extreme levels of stress.

The link between mental health and young lawyers is not surprising, given the highly competitive and demanding nature of the legal profession. Lawyers are often expected to work long hours, meet tight deadlines, and handle high-stakes cases, which can take a toll on their mental health. In addition, the stigma surrounding mental health in the legal profession can make it difficult for lawyers to seek help when they need it.

However, there are signs that the legal profession is starting to take mental health more seriously. 

• For example, the Law Society of England and Wales has launched a Mental Health and Wellbeing Toolkit for legal employers, which provides guidance on how to create a supportive work environment for employees. 
• In addition, several law firms, including Clifford Chance and Hogan Lovells, have implemented mental health initiatives, such as well-being programs and access to counseling services.

Despite these efforts, more needs to be done to support the mental health of young lawyers. This includes creating a more open and supportive culture around mental health, as well as providing access to resources and support services. By doing so, we can help ensure that young lawyers can thrive both personally and professionally, without sacrificing their mental well-being.

How You Can Take Care of Your Mental Health

• Prioritise self-care: This means taking time to do things that bring you joy and relaxation, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.
• Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life to avoid burnout. This may involve saying no to additional work or taking regular breaks.
• Seek support: Reach out to friends, family, or mental health professionals for support if you are struggling with your mental health. It’s important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
• Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or breathing exercises, can help to reduce stress and improve mental well-being.
• Build resilience: Law can be a challenging and high-pressure profession, so it’s important to build resilience to cope with stress and setbacks. This may involve developing a growth mindset and practicing positive self-talk.
• Take breaks: It’s essential to take breaks throughout the workday to recharge and refresh your mind. Even short breaks can make a significant difference in productivity and overall well-being.
• Stay connected: Maintaining social connections with colleagues, friends, and family can help to alleviate feelings of isolation and promote mental wellness.

Read our guide to find out more tips and tricks to improve your mental well-being.

The boost in funding for Mental Health Services is excellent news for the UK as a whole, and particularly for law students who face unique challenges in maintaining their mental well-being. By providing more comprehensive mental health support to law students, universities and law schools can help ensure that their students can succeed both academically and personally. We must continue to prioritise mental health and work towards a future where mental health support is accessible to all who need it.

It is essential to remember that mental health is equally important as physical health, and seeking help for mental health problems is a sign of strength, not weakness. As we continue to navigate the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, we should continue to prioritise mental health and ensure that those who need support can access it.

By Mallika Singhal