Every May, Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health and well-being. Across the nation, communities, schools, and organizations shed light on mental health issues, break down stigmas, and promote resources and support systems.
Often, law school can be described as one of the most challenging academic experiences one can undertake. With its intense workload, high expectations, and competitive environment, maintaining mental awareness and well-being can be difficult.
“Mental health awareness is crucial,” said Kerii Landry-Thomas, associate vice chancellor for Equity, Inclusion and Title IX. “The way we as individuals navigate our mental health determines our ability to navigate day to day life and complicated situations that come up.”
It is important to develop strategies to balance moments of high stress.
“As law students and attorneys, we tend to have a fascination with ‘grind culture’- a mindset that emphasizes working hard and constantly striving for success,” says Michael R. Thomas, externship database specialist. “Take a moment to mediate, take a walk, or simply journal to track your moods to note what makes you happy vs. what disturbs your peace.”
Openly discussing experiences, challenges, and triumphs with someone can diminish the barriers of stigma and shame. Schools and universities are now integrating programming to equip students with the knowledge and skills to navigate their emotional well-being.
Southern University has two licensed therapists available to help students acknowledge their mental health. Both are available to provide therapeutic services for students through the Southern University Counseling Center (UCC), which offers walk-in crisis services, an after-hours hotline, and referrals to resources that may be out of the center’s scope of practice.
“The therapeutic process is meant to empower and encourage a person on a journey of better mental health,” says Charnel Jackson, MA, LPC. “The other plus is the professional boundaries that will exist.”
Southern University Law Center (SULC) has made significant strides to ensure that students have lasting access to mental health services. The Law Center has introduced mental health fairs, educational seminars, and creative initiatives that address the importance of mental health.
Staying mentally aware during law school is not just about surviving but thriving. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, students can foster resilience and well-being. Balancing academic excellence with mental health is key to a successful and fulfilling legal career.
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