Supporting Clients with Mental Health Challenges While Preserving Your Own

As a lawyer in Washington, D.C., advocating for veterans, military members, and their families for nearly two decades, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact of stress and mental health challenges on my clients. Many of them are veterans struggling with service-connected mental health issues, such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression. These conditions not only affect their well-being but also complicate the legal process, making it essential for lawyers to develop strategies for handling such cases effectively.

Early Lessons in the Importance of Mental Health Support

Early in my practice, I had a client from the Vietnam War era who had been fighting for his service-connected mental health benefits for decades. Thankfully, and a bit unusual from my experience, we were able to resolve his case in just a couple of years, securing him the benefits he desperately needed. However, the outcome was bittersweet. Several months after receiving the decision, the veteran took his own life. This tragic event left me with a profound realization: Had he received his benefits and medical treatment earlier, his journey might not have been so all-consuming, and he might not have felt as though his life was over once we obtained his rightfully earned albeit unfortunately delayed benefits.

This experience underscored the critical role that timely support and resources play in the lives of those struggling with mental health issues. It also highlighted the need for lawyers to be proactive in addressing these challenges, not just as legal advocates but as empathetic professionals who can connect clients with vital resources.

Handling Suicidal Ideation: A Personal Experience

Another client, a veteran with severe service-connected mental health issues, once expressed imminent suicidal ideation during our representation. It was a Sunday evening, and I had to act swiftly to ensure his safety. I worked tirelessly to locate him and contact the appropriate authorities and his known associates. Thankfully, we were able to intervene effectively, and the veteran was fine in the end. However, those harrowing hours left an indelible mark on me, reinforcing the importance of being prepared to handle such situations.

The Importance of Self-Care for Lawyers

Dealing with clients who have significant mental health challenges not only is emotionally taxing but also poses a risk of secondary trauma for lawyers. Legal professionals must prioritize their own mental health and well-being. Doing so can maintain their resilience and provide more effective support to their clients.

Self-care is not just about personal well-being; it also has familial and professional benefits. Lawyers who are mentally healthy are better equipped to manage stress, communicate effectively, and make sound legal decisions. This, in turn, enhances their ability to serve clients more effectively and contribute to a more compassionate legal environment.

Strategies for Handling Clients with Mental Health Challenges

Here are some strategies that lawyers can use to handle clients with mental health challenges while also taking care of themselves:

• Establish trust and rapport. Create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable sharing their experiences. Building trust is crucial, especially for clients who have experienced trauma.
• Recognize and address trauma. Understand the signs of trauma and its impact on decision-making. This involves being aware of how trauma can affect a client’s ability to articulate their needs and make informed legal decisions.
• Use trauma-informed practices. Adopt trauma-informed practices that are sensitive to triggers and use communication strategies that minimize distress. This includes providing clear explanations of legal processes and offering support resources.
• Encourage open communication. Encourage clients to express their feelings and concerns openly. This helps in identifying potential mental health issues early and connecting clients with appropriate support services.
• Foster a supportive environment. Cultivate an environment where clients feel supported and understood. This includes being empathetic and nonjudgmental in interactions.
• Prioritize self-care. Engage in regular self-care activities such as mindfulness, exercise, and social support to manage stress and prevent burnout.
• Seek professional help when needed. Know when to refer clients to mental health professionals. This not only supports the client’s well-being but also enhances the legal process by ensuring that clients are in a better state to make informed decisions.
• Stay educated on mental health issues. Continuously update your knowledge on mental health issues, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. This helps identify signs and symptoms and provides appropriate support.
• Develop a network of mental health resources. Build relationships with mental health professionals and organizations that can provide support to clients. (Look to your local or state bar for these resources!) This network can be invaluable in connecting clients with the help they need.
• Promote a healthy work-life balance. Ensure that you maintain a balance between work and personal life. This helps prevent burnout and maintain the energy needed to support clients effectively.

As lawyers, it’s crucial to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. This applies not only to ourselves but also to our clients. We should never hesitate to reach out for support when dealing with complex mental health issues, whether it’s for ourselves or on behalf of our clients. It’s equally important to convey this message to our clients: They should never feel embarrassed about asking for help. By fostering an environment where seeking support is normalized and encouraged, we can help break down barriers that might prevent individuals from getting the assistance they need. This mindset can be transformative, allowing both lawyers and clients to navigate challenging situations with greater resilience and hope. By embracing this approach, we can create a more supportive and compassionate legal community that prioritizes well-being alongside legal success.

Thriving Together

Handling clients with incredible stress, mental health challenges, and PTSD requires a multifaceted approach that combines legal expertise with empathy and understanding. By adopting strategies that prioritize both client support and self-care, lawyers can not only enhance their professional effectiveness but also contribute to a more compassionate legal system.

Following these tips will make you not only a better person but also a better lawyer. It fosters an environment where both clients and legal professionals thrive, leading to more successful legal outcomes and a healthier, more supportive community. As lawyers, we have the opportunity to make a profound impact on the lives of those we serve, and by embracing these strategies, we can fulfill that role with greater compassion and effectiveness.