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October 10, 2024

Recognizing Law Student Mental Health Day

Each year on October 10, law schools and law students observe Law Student Mental Health Day, the goal of which is for law schools and students to focus attention on, discuss, and combat the stigma, biases, and misperceptions associated with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions, which can arise for the first time, or worsen, during law school. This year’s theme is to explore the state of well-being in the legal profession. We spoke with Henry Bethell, a law student at the University of Baltimore School of Law who also serves as the Treasurer of the school’s Disabled Law Students Association, about this day. 

What, if anything, is missing from the conversations taking place on Law Student Mental Health Day? 

The theme of isolation. We are social creatures. Not having contact with and support from others can lead to depression and anxiety. In my role as a TA for an introductory legal writing course, I emphasize to students that maintaining their social life is a key factor to succeeding in law school.

What more can law schools do to address students’ mental health?

Mental health must be prioritized more. Much of law school relies on the principles of social Darwinism. The students who can handle the stress succeed, while the students who are struggling continue to struggle. The curve and cold-calling are sources of stress and anxiety for first-year law students! Professors should emphasize that the purpose of class time is to learn and encourage students to volunteer or help a struggling classmate. Some professors have introduced the concept of co-counsel, encouraging students to view their classmates as teammates rather than competitors.

Do you believe that there remains stigma associated with mental health in the legal profession?

Yes. An attorney in my family had recommended that I not request accommodations for my mental health condition because doing so might raise questions regarding my fitness to practice law in the character and fitness portion of the bar application. Thankfully this was not the case, but stigma remains.

What are law schools getting right on this issue?

The law school I attend has many student-led efforts to promote mental health. I believe empowering students is one of the best ways to combat mental health because peers are best suited to look out for each other.  

What specific changes could law schools implement to support student well-being?

I think all students should receive one to two “mental health days” per semester. Attendance policies are strict. I realize that class time is important, but these days could help students unwind and take the time they need to be their best selves in class.

What are some tools that support student well-being?

Free meditation apps, well-being events for students, “on call” lists (which alert students to which days they will be selected for cold-calling), and comfortable spaces to sit and de-stress. For mental health awareness, our Disabled Law Student Association hosted an event where we made our own “study buddies” (stuffed animals). This was such a fun event to put down the laptops and textbooks, be around friends, and leave with an adorable stuffie!

Do you have anything you would like to add?

Take care of your people! Make sure you tell the people in your life that they matter to you.

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