It Happens to Law Students and Lawyers Too: Depression Facts and Resources

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Having a rough day at law school can leave anyone feeling blue. But for people who have clinically diagnosed depression, low moods are long-lasting and more severe, and are often coupled with other symptoms like lack of energy or focus, feeling worthless, or irritability. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA),

  • There are several different types of depression, including major depressive disorder, which affects around 16.1 million adults in the U.S.
  • Women are more likely than men to experience depression.
  • Depression and anxiety disorders are not the same, but the symptoms can be similar. It’s not uncommon for people to suffer from both depression and anxiety.

Not surprisingly, the legal profession is not immune to depression. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Addiction Medicine showed that approximately 28% of lawyers struggle with some form of depression. In a 2016 Survey of Law Student Well-Being, 17% of law students experienced depression, and one-sixth of the survey participants were diagnosed with depression since starting law school.

If you suspect that you or a law student you know is experiencing depression, there is help on campus and in the community. The CSU Counseling Center offers depression screenings in October and March each year. But you don’t have to wait until one of the screening events to get help. The Counseling Center offers individual programs on overcoming depression that you access anytime. Various organizations and support groups are available in the Cleveland area to help with depression.

It’s smart to recognize the difference between feeling down and being clinically depressed. You can educate yourself and get help if you or a friend needs it.

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