I'm a family law litigator, so high levels of stress are simply part of the job. I've observed that many attorneys, especially litigators, are terrible at dealing with anxiety and stress. The root of this problem is likely a combination of disorganization, not keeping a healthy work-life balance and not practicing self-care. In the long run, being able to handle this type of job without burnout or negative health effects requires learning to successfully manage that stress.

For me, one of the biggest sources of my stress was not turning off work when I got home. Early in my career, I used to give my cellphone number to clients and check my work email nonstop. I would get calls and texts from clients at 2 a.m. with issues that I could do nothing to fix in the middle of the night. I now am firm in not giving out my cellphone number or having my phone set up to check work emails. A client with an emergency can speak with our after-hours receptionist, who will contact an attorney in a true emergency. Clients understand that not being accessible 24/7 enables me to recharge and to do the best job on their cases, so this has not had any negative effect on client satisfaction.

At the office, if I feel stressed about being pulled in too many places, I will close my office door for some uninterrupted work time. I may also take a break at lunchtime and leave the office. Sometimes just a change of scenery and getting a bit of sunlight can reduce my stress levels, and I come back to the office recharged. When I am in court, the best relief for stress and anxiety for me is adequate preparation. If I know all of the facts and go into the courtroom organized, there is no reason for an extreme stress level.

(When I was a brand-new attorney, I was often overprepared—which led to sleepless nights and even more stress). Another stress reliever for me is to bring my lunch to court so that during breaks I can find a quiet place to sit, unwind and recharge.

In addition to addressing my own stress levels, I also am cognizant of how my staff and co-workers are doing. I meet with my associates individually once a week to discuss particular challenges in cases so we can work through them together. I also ask about any concerns or difficulties they have had in the past week that they wish to discuss, whether professional or personal. Managers have a responsibility to keep the lines of communication open and keep an eye on all of our team members to make sure they are managing stress and have all the support they need to be their best and most productive self.

Jeanette Soltys is managing attorney of the Atlanta Divorce Law Group.