The Evolving Role of Mental Health in Legal Recruiting: How Firms Are Addressing Burnout and Well-Being

Mental health and well-being have become central issues in the legal industry, with burnout rates among lawyers remaining alarmingly high. In 2025, law firms are increasingly prioritizing mental health initiatives—not just as a retention strategy, but as a key component of their recruiting efforts. Candidates are paying close attention to these efforts, and firms that fail to address well-being risk losing top talent.

This article explores how firms are integrating mental health into their recruiting and retention strategies, what candidates should look for when evaluating a firm’s commitment to well-being, and how to advocate for your own mental health needs during the hiring process.

The State of Mental Health in BigLaw

The legal profession has long been associated with high levels of stress and burnout, and the pandemic only exacerbated these challenges. According to a 2024 survey by the American Bar Association, 75% of associates report experiencing burnout, and 60% say their mental health has declined over the past year.

In response, firms are taking steps to address these issues. Many have introduced wellness programs, reduced billable hour requirements, and hired mental health professionals to support their attorneys. However, critics argue that these efforts often fall short of creating meaningful change.

How Firms Are Addressing Mental Health in Recruiting

In 2025, mental health is becoming a key differentiator in the battle for top talent. Firms are highlighting their well-being initiatives in recruiting materials, hosting wellness-focused events, and even incorporating mental health questions into interviews.

For example, several Vault 50 firms now offer "wellness days" in addition to traditional vacation time, allowing associates to take time off without using their PTO. Others have introduced flexible work arrangements and mental health stipends to help attorneys manage stress and maintain work-life balance.

What Candidates Should Look For

For law students and lateral candidates, evaluating a firm’s commitment to mental health is a critical part of the decision-making process. Here are some factors to consider:

-Wellness Programs: Look for firms that offer robust wellness programs, including access to mental health professionals, mindfulness training, and fitness stipends.

-Workload Management: Ask about billable hour requirements and whether the firm has policies in place to prevent overwork.

-Culture of Support: Pay attention to how firm leaders talk about mental health during interviews. A culture of support starts at the top.

-Transparency: Firms that are transparent about their mental health challenges and efforts to address them are often more committed to creating meaningful change.

How to Advocate for Your Well-Being

Advocating for your mental health during the recruiting process can feel daunting, but it’s an important step in finding a firm that aligns with your values. Here are some tips:

-Ask the Right Questions: During interviews, ask about the firm’s mental health initiatives and how they support attorneys’ well-being.

-Trust Your Instincts: If a firm’s culture feels overly demanding or dismissive of mental health concerns, it may not be the right fit for you.

-Seek Out Allies: Connect with current or former employees to get an insider’s perspective on the firm’s culture and support systems.

The Future of Mental Health in BigLaw

As the legal industry continues to grapple with mental health challenges, one thing is clear: well-being is no longer a peripheral issue—it’s a business imperative. Firms that prioritize mental health will have a competitive edge in attracting and retaining top talent, while candidates who prioritize well-being will be better positioned for long-term success.

In 2025 and beyond, the key to a fulfilling legal career is finding a firm that values not just your skills, but your health and happiness as well.