News Post

New National Research Study on Lawyer Well-Being Underway

The Alabama State Bar is participating in a new national research initiative focused on the mental health and well-being of lawyers. This project is a collaboration between the American Bar Association’s Commission on Lawyer Assistance Programs and leading behavioral health specialists Patrick Krill, J.D., LL.M., M.A., and Dr. Justin Anker from the University of Minnesota’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.

This study serves as a 10-year update to the landmark 2016 ABA–Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation report, providing timely insights into evolving trends, challenges, and opportunities in lawyer mental health and well-being. In light of significant changes in the legal profession, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the growing role of technology, a national reassessment is both timely and necessary.

A random sample of approximately 13,800 Alabama lawyers (about 70% of our membership) will be invited by email to anonymously complete a 20-minute survey. If you are selected, you’ll receive an email from the Alabama State Bar with a link and additional details.

The survey is strictly anonymous and confidential. The Alabama State Bar will not have access to any raw data or identifying information. Only de-identified, aggregated results will be shared with us. The survey will explore a wide range of personal, cultural, and workplace factors—such as stress, anxiety, burnout, and the use of support resources—as well as positive behaviors linked to well-being.

More details about the survey can be found here.

Questions?
Please reach out directly to the study’s research team:

Your participation can help shape the future of well-being in our profession. If selected, we encourage you to take part.