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Charity urges legal sector to take “practical action” this Mental Health Awareness Week

By Belinda Liversedge on 08 May 2026

As Mental Health Awareness Week (11–17 May) approaches, legal mental health charity LawCare is urging legal professionals and firms to move past simple "awareness" and commit to practical, everyday actions to combat the industry's soaring rates of anxiety and burnout.

While industry awareness of mental health has grown, translating that awareness into daily practice remains a major hurdle in high-pressure legal environments.

Small, everyday actions can make work feel more manageable, LawCare advises. These include taking a proper break, even if it’s just a short walk outside; finishing work at a reasonable time; checking in with a colleague and “really listening”; and sharing what’s on your mind with someone you trust.

The charity is also encouraging organisations to consider how their work is structured. This includes looking at workloads, support, and whether there is any opportunity for open conversations about mental health.

Heavy workloads, long hours and poor workplace support are driving poor wellbeing in the legal profession. Photograph: iStock

Supportive management, regular check-ins, and a culture where people feel able to speak up can also make a significant difference, it says.

Elizabeth Rimmer, LawCare CEO, said: “We hear every day from people in the legal sector who are struggling with pressure and stress.

“Small actions, such as taking a break or checking in with a colleague, can make a real difference, but lasting change also depends on how work is organised and managed. Small actions won’t change everything overnight, but they’re a good place to start.”

Many people in the legal sector struggle with high levels of anxiety and burnout.

Nearly 60 per cent of legal professionals in the UK report low levels of mental wellbeing, found LawCare’s 2025 Life in the Law research. The top causes were heavy workloads, long hours, and poor workplace support.

The study showed that while awareness is increasing, nearly 79 per cent still work beyond contracted hours, with 56 per cent considering leaving their roles.

LawCare is hosting a free webinar – Let’s talk about difficult conversations at work – which will explore how to have more open and supportive conversations in the legal sector, on May 14 at 12pm. Places are free and can be booked at www.lawcare.org.uk/talk