Last year, the U.S. Surgeon General issued a report titled “Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation.” The report details how the pandemic has exacerbated a preexisting condition whereby many Americans were experiencing obvious amounts of loneliness. The report further warned that the consequences of poor connection between people can be quite harmful, resulting in increased risk of stroke, heart disease and dementia in older adults. The problem is very clear when one examines the practice of law.

We lawyers face enormous stress and pressure in our occupation. We are often careful not to share our feelings with anyone for fear of how it may injure our reputation among peers and/or clients. The result is a deep lonely feeling that you are the only one so struggling. It can lead to anxiety and possibly depression. The problem has increased over recent years. Studies show the problem permeates through all types of practice, including large firms, solo practitioners, in-house counsel and government attorneys.