World Suicide Prevention Day – 10 September 2021
by Rose Bobby and Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Committee,
One in 10 young lawyers worldwide ‘experiencing suicidal thoughts’ – Law Gazette
Today is a day of awareness. Today we come together to raise this awareness and promote action towards suicide prevention.
A global survey has revealed that 1 in 10 lawyers under 30 experience suicidal thoughts as a result of their work. Over half of the lawyers under 30 have experienced depressed thoughts, fatigue, disrupted sleep and anxiety (International Bar Association (IBA)). The IBA discovered that wellbeing was also worse among lawyers from ethnic minorities and those with disabilities. The study found that 1 in 6 disabled lawyers experience suicidal thoughts as a result of work-related issues.
However, there has been a shift in coping mechanisms. IBA’s latest study identifies that majority of respondents now have adopted ‘healthy coping strategies’ as opposed to alcohol or recreational drugs. Strategies such as yoga, meditation, and a healthy diet.
‘The devastating effects of depression, stress, addiction and other such attacks on our wellbeing may have preceded the coronavirus pandemic, but there is no question that it has exacerbated their impact.’ – Horacio Bernardes Neto (Previous president of IBA)
Signs to look out for your family, friends and colleagues
This is not an exhaustive list
- Changes in behaviour e.g., mood swings, sleeping/eating patterns, becoming angry, negative, depressed
- Out of character reckless behaviour, e.g. giving away all possessions, increased use of drugs or alcohol, excessive spending
- Social withdrawal
- Lack of energy
- Neglecting grooming and personal hygiene
- Talking about suicide or dying
Provided by Law Society – Elizabeth Rimmer – CEO of LawCare
LawCare (http://www.lawcare.org.uk/) supports good mental health and wellbeing in the legal community. Call 0800 279 6888 Monday – Friday 9:00 – 19.30, weekends & bank holidays 10–16:00.
Samaritans
Every year the Samaritans campaign with over 70 other suicide prevention and mental health groups under the National Suicide Prevention Alliance (NSPA).
This year’s theme is ‘Creating Hope Through Action’, which aims to empower people with the confidence to engage with the complexity of ‘hope’.
‘What do you do to stay hopeful when you’re going through a difficult time?’ Please comment and let us know. It could help provide some hope to someone else too.
We believe we can all play an active part in suicide prevention, which is why Lennons Solicitors are supporting Samaritans this World Suicide Prevention Day.
The Samaritans have compiled a list of tips and resources to help you remain hopeful during a difficult time: https://bit.ly/2XIR8q0
If you would like to leave a gift in your Will or make a donation to the Samaritans, please click on the following link: https://www.samaritans.org/donate-now/
You can call them any time, day or night, on 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org ????
Articles linked to Diversity...
Today is a day of awareness.... read more