Stress still the major player in LawCare calls

Stress is the major factor in Scottish solicitors seeking help from the support service LawCare, the charity has reported.

Of those calling the LawCare helpline in 2014, 84% reported stress.

The service also received more calls in 2014 than in each of the previous three years.

Trish McLellan, LawCare coordinator for Scotland and Northern Ireland, said: “The majority of our calls are stress related. Sometimes it’s the struggles of maintaining a work/life balance, sometimes its other issues, like financial problems, that in turn cause stress.

“Most people call the LawCare helpline between two and three times about the same issue and not all calls are about major problems. Sometimes people call because they need advice on how to tackle a smaller concern before it gets any bigger."

She added: “Almost everyone that calls wishes they had called sooner. There’s a lot more that can be done at an early stage to prevent issues getting out of hand. LawCare is a completely free and entirely confidential service. There’s no harm in giving us a call."

In LawCare's experience, lawyers are often so busy helping other people with their problems that they do not always take time to deal with issues before they become stressful situations.

Ms McLellan observed: “We are bombarded with information about looking after your physical health, but mental health is just as important. If you’re fortunate enough to go through your career without any significant issues you’ll undoubtedly come across some who isn’t that lucky. Look out for others and let them know that services like LawCare are out there. A more supportive environment is a better working environment for everyone.”

Neil Stevenson, director of representation & support at the Law Society of Scotland, described LawCare as "a great service providing valuable pastoral care and advice for the legal profession".

He commented: “Working as a solicitor often involves helping other people but it’s important to remember to take some time to deal with anything that could cause stress further down the line.”