A legal practitioner, Tope Adebayo has raised the alarm of male legal practitioners being at risk of mental breakdown. This is even as he called for greater awareness of the mental health challenges faced by men in the law profession.
This disclosure was contained in a statement, made available to DAILY POST on Monday, in Taraba State.
Speaking at the commemoration of International Men’s Day, the legal personnel, highlighted the pressing need to address the mental well-being of male lawyers. This is with particular reference to the high-stress environment of legal practice.
The statement read, “Men face unique societal pressures that impact their emotional well-being, especially in demanding professions like law. Where balancing professional and personal responsibilities is a constant challenge.”
The statement which was signed by Adebayo identified factors such as heavy workloads, high expectations and a competitive professional atmosphere as key contributors to mental health struggles in the legal field.
In addition to the above factors, Adebayo emphasized traditional societal norms that hinged on strength and resilience. He noted that these factors are barriers preventing men from seeking help.
He said, “Men’s mental health is overshadowed by societal expectations of toughness, leading many to internalize their struggles. This can result in burnout, anxiety, depression, or substance abuse.”
To support his case, Adebayo cited a 2021 report, highlighting the alarming statistics.
He said “Men are three to four times more likely to die by suicide than women.”
“Women are more likely to report symptoms of depression or anxiety.
The report noted that men’s emotional distress often manifests in ways that go undiagnosed, such as anger, irritability, or risk-taking behaviours.
The statement noted, “Lawyers often face long working hours, high client demands, and emotionally charged cases, which contribute to chronic stress. The adversarial nature of legal work reinforces traditional masculine ideals of toughness. Discouraging male lawyers from acknowledging struggles with anxiety, depression, or burnout.”
Referencing a study by the American Bar Association, ABA, which revealed that 28% of lawyers report symptoms of depression, 19% experience anxiety, and 11.4% have suicidal thoughts, the firm proposed several solutions, including flexible work policies, remote work options, and mental health initiatives that prioritize balance over burnout.
The statement also urged the legal community to reduce stigma and improve access to mental health resources. It also encourages normal and open conversations about mental well-being.
It read, “Promoting healthy work environments and championing mental well-being is essential to ensuring that men in the legal profession thrive both personally and professionally.”
Adebayo noted that this year’s theme, “Men’s Health Champions,” underscores the importance of mental health advocacy for men. A topic he said has often been neglected.
source: Daily Post
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