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Mental Health Awareness Week (Monday 12^th May – Sunday 18^th May 2025) is a valuable reminder for individuals and organisations to prioritise mental wellbeing.

Legal professionals in the charity sector often carry a heavy emotional load. Knowing their work can directly shape someone’s safety, stability, or future adds a deep weight to the already complex task of navigating legal systems and supporting vulnerable people.

According to LawCare’s , there was a 13% increase between 2023 to 2024 in those seeking mental health support.

• 39% sought help for stress and anxiety
• 15% for career anxiety
• 10% for workplace bullying and harassment

It is crucial for lawyers in charitable roles to look after their own mental health. Doing so not only supports long-term wellbeing but also strengthens the capacity to continue their work helping others effectively.

8 top tips to support your mental health

1. Set boundaries between work and personal life

It can be difficult to switch off, especially when deeply invested in your work. Set clear working hours, avoid checking emails outside of them, and prioritise time for rest and personal activities. Establishing boundaries is vital for long-term resilience.

2. Practise mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques

Mindfulness does not require hours of meditation. Just a few minutes of focused breathing or a quiet moment before starting your day help calm your mind and improve focus. Regular practice can reduce anxiety and support emotional clarity.

3. Reach out for peer support and mentoring

Talking to someone who understands the pressures of charity legal work can be hugely beneficial. Whether through informal chats with a colleague or structured peer mentoring, sharing experiences can ease isolation and offer fresh perspective.

4. Take breaks throughout the day

Continuous work without pauses drains both energy and focus. Schedule regular short breaks to step away from your desk, breathe deeply, stretch, or get some fresh air. Even a five-minute pause can make a meaningful difference.

5. Incorporate physical activity into your routine

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to improve mental health. A walk, yoga, cycling, or even gentle stretching can relieve tension, lift your mood, and boost concentration.

6. Be kind to yourself and let go of perfectionism

Striving for excellence is commendable, but perfectionism can be exhausting and counterproductive. Allow yourself to do your best without being overly self-critical. Celebrate small wins and acknowledge that imperfection is part of growth.

7. Use supervision and reflective practice

Supervision is not just for those early in their careers. Regular reflective discussions with a supervisor or trusted colleague help process complex cases, understand emotional reactions, and maintain professional clarity.

8. Make time for meaningful downtime

Protect time for rest and enjoyment. Whether it is reading, connecting with family, engaging in hobbies, or simply spending time outdoors, switch off fully from work and immerse yourself in something restorative.

Resources to support you

• is a free, confidential support service for anyone working in the legal sector. They offer helplines, peer support, and mental health resources tailored to legal professionals.
• Therapy and training for legal teams. Consider engaging therapy or structured wellbeing training designed specifically for lawyers and legal teams in high-impact environments.
• Support your mental health legal work with ÑÇÖÞÉ«ÇéÍø content, including expert commentary on the Mental Health Act, analysis of proposed legislative reforms, and updates on devolved mental health frameworks across the UK.

Mental health is not a luxury, it is a foundation. As a legal professional in the charity sector, the work you do is vital, but it is equally vital to care for yourself. By integrating even a few of these simple strategies into your routine, you can protect your wellbeing and continue making a meaningful difference.