To coincide with World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10, today also marks the ABA’s annual Law Student Mental Health Day. This day provides an opportunity to reflect on the well-being of law students and the mental health challenges they face. Law school can be, and often is, a demanding, high-stress environment. Self-care is essential.
If you know of or are a law student looking for Mental Health Resources related to law school, the American Bar Association’s Law Student Division is a great place to start. The ABA offers mental health-related articles, podcasts, and webinars, and provides links to additional programs and resources on their platform. Law Students can take advantage of these resources for free with a free student ABA membership.https://www.americanbar.org/groups/law_students/resources/mental-health/
Many law schools are following the ABA’s lead and are beginning observe Law Student Mental Health Day through thoughtful programming, wellness initiatives, and even scheduled days off. Whether it is an informational panel, a student organization hosting bracelet-making or pumpkin painting, yoga or meditation, if your law school is hosting a wellness event, encourage your peers and students to attend. On this Law Student Mental Health Day, let’s take a step beyond individual care and focus on how we, as peers and colleagues, can make a positive impact on each other's mental health and our law school community.
Be kind to yourself and others; today and every day.
(Erica Sylvia, UMass Law)
