Navigating a New Normal: Addressing Mental Health Struggles in the Legal Profession Amid Return-to-Office Mandates

The legal profession is currently grappling with numerous mental health challenges, exacerbated by recent national tragedies and a polarized political climate. A recent discussion on Legal Speak features Stacey Dougan, an attorney-turned-therapist based in Atlanta, who offers insights into these mental health stressors. According to Dougan’s observations, the return-to-office mandates are contributing significantly to this strain, as professionals must navigate the shift from remote work back to in-person environments, which brings its own set of pressures and anxieties.