ICAM: six out of ten lawyers experience anxiety

Madrid’s legal profession is undergoing a profound shift in its approach to mental health, according to a recent survey by the ICAM Cortina Foundation. The report, unveiled on Monday at the Madrid Bar Association’s headquarters, reveals a growing acceptance and normalisation of mental health discussions among lawyers in the Spanish capital.

The survey, which sampled over a thousand legal professionals, found that more than half of the respondents now perceive a positive change in how mental well-being is discussed within their field. Alarmingly, the data also highlights that six out of ten lawyers experience anxiety, and nearly half report suffering from fatigue, negative thoughts, and emotional disturbances. Women and younger lawyers appear particularly affected, with these groups also being more open about their psychological challenges.

Dean Eugenio Ribón hailed the study as a pivotal moment in breaking down the enduring stigma surrounding mental health in the legal sector. “This research not only provides critical data on our professionals’ well-being but also marks a significant step towards dismantling the long-standing taboo in our profession,” Ribón said. The legal profession’s demanding work hours, immense workloads, and stringent deadlines have long contributed to a culture that shies away from addressing mental health issues openly.

The report notes that over half of the surveyed lawyers acknowledge a trend towards a more open dialogue about mental health. Furthermore, 30% have observed increased awareness of mental well-being within their firms, and 20% feel more comfortable discussing personal issues at work.

The challenge of mental health

Lawyers’ well-being has traditionally been overshadowed by the sector’s intense pressures. Constant stress, tight deadlines, and the need to attract clients create a high-risk environment for mental health issues. “The legal profession’s nature makes it complex and precarious from a well-being perspective. Stress levels, unyielding deadlines, and the individualistic nature of the work contribute to neglecting personal health,” Ribón added. The survey underscores that anxiety is widespread, with 66% of lawyers reporting it in the past year. Almost half of respondents also faced fatigue, negative thoughts, and emotional disturbances. Major contributors to this distress include the inability to disconnect from work, long hours, ineffective time management tools, and insufficient recognition from employers.

Generational and gender disparities

The survey reveals that younger lawyers and women are disproportionately affected by mental health issues. Female lawyers, in particular, report feeling less relaxed compared to their male counterparts, and younger lawyers are more likely to view their work negatively.

One-quarter of female lawyers reported feeling calm and relaxed in the past fortnight, compared to nearly 40% of men. Additionally, younger lawyers are experiencing greater pressure and less opportunity to take breaks. This generational divide underscores a pressing need for targeted support.

Despite the evident need, the survey found that about 80% of lawyers believe their firms’ responses to mental health issues are inadequate. Many are unaware of the support available or believe that initiatives like remote working and flexible hours are insufficient.