By the Family Law Education Network
Family law is an emotionally demanding area of practice. As professionals who often work with trauma, conflict, and human vulnerability, it’s essential that we look out not just for our clients—but for each other.
Mental health struggles are not uncommon in the legal profession, yet they often remain hidden behind closed doors. Whether your colleague is showing signs of burnout, overwhelm, or something more serious, knowing how to respond with care, professionalism and empathy can make a meaningful difference.
Here are 10 practical ways you can support a colleague who may be experiencing a mental health crisis.
- Notice the Signs
Pay attention to behavioural changes: withdrawal, irritability, missed deadlines, frequent absences, emotional outbursts, or visible distress. Subtle shifts in tone, appearance, or engagement levels may be a sign something isn’t right.
Don’t assume someone else will step in. If you notice something, trust your instincts.
- Reach Out Privately
Approach your colleague one-on-one in a quiet, private setting. Express concern without judgement.
You don’t need to diagnose or offer solutions—just start with, “I’ve noticed you seem a bit off lately. Are you okay?”
- Listen Without Trying to Fix
The most powerful thing you can offer is your presence. Let them talk and listen with empathy. Avoid rushing in with advice or dismissing their feelings.
Phrases like “That sounds really tough” or “Thanks for sharing that with me” show support without pressure.
- Respect Confidentiality
Trust is everything. Unless there is a genuine safety risk, keep the conversation confidential. Avoid sharing your colleague’s situation with others in the office or making assumptions on their behalf.
- Offer Flexible Support
Mental health challenges affect people differently. Some may need time off, reduced caseloads, or more structure and support. Be open to discussing what practical help looks like for them.
Ask: “What would be most helpful for you right now?”
- Know the Referral Pathways
You are not expected to act as a mental health professional. Encourage your colleague to access support through:
- Their GP or mental health professional
- The firm’s EAP (Employee Assistance Program) if available
- The LawCare helpline or BarCare
- External services such as Lifeline (13 11 14) or Beyond Blue (1300 224 636)
Have these details on hand and offer to help them make a call or access support if needed.
- Check In—More Than Once
Support isn’t a one-off gesture. Continue to check in over time, even with a simple, “How are you going today?”
Knowing someone genuinely cares can be a powerful stabilising force for someone in distress.
- Be Mindful of Workplace Culture
Stigma still runs deep in the legal profession. Champion a culture of openness by speaking respectfully about mental health and setting boundaries around overwork. Normalize conversations about self-care and wellbeing.
Change starts from the top—but it grows through everyday interactions.
- Educate Yourself
The better informed you are, the more confident you’ll feel in supporting others. Consider completing Mental Health First Aid training or attending CPDs focused on mental health in legal practice.
Understanding conditions like burnout, anxiety, depression, or vicarious trauma can help you respond with insight rather than fear.
- Take Care of Yourself Too
Supporting someone through crisis can take a toll. Make sure you also have your own support network and strategies in place. You can’t hold space for others if you’re running on empty.
Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential, especially in a field like family law.
Final Thoughts
As family lawyers, we see the worst and best of human behaviour. It’s not surprising that this work can take a toll on even the most seasoned professionals. But by supporting each other through mental health challenges with compassion, dignity, and care, we build a more resilient, humane, and sustainable profession.
Because looking after each other is just as important as looking after our clients.
