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Mental Health & Law School

This guide highlights the importance of mental health hygiene in law school, and it provides links and information about on-campus mental health resources.

Key Take-Aways From This Guide

  • Statistics show that many law students develop depression, anxiety and/or substance-related issues while in school.  
    • This doesn't mean you necessarily will develop any of these issues, nor that they will necessarily begin during law school.  Developing strong mental hygiene, being aware of symptoms, and knowing your options for help can prevent issues or allow for early intervention. 
  • Having a mental illness or substance abuse issue doesn't automatically disqualify you from being a lawyer.
    • In fact, the American Bar Association has created the Commission on Lawyer Assistance Programs specifically to combat this stigma. The CoLAP's express mission is "to assure that every judge, lawyer and law student has access to support and assistance when confronting alcoholism, substance use disorders, or mental health issues so that lawyers are able to recover, families are preserved and clients and other members of the public are protected." 
  • There are many resources for help, both on- and off-campus. 
    • ​In addition to the mental health resources listed in this guide, don't forget you can contact Assistant Dean Paul Manrique or the other Office of Academic Support staff members-- especially if you are experiencing a situational stressor (e.g., death of a family member) that may temporarily impact your studies. Working with Academic Affairs to turn something in late or make up work is always preferable to plagiarizing!  

Do You Need Help Right Now?

If you are experiencing an emergency: 

  • Dial 911
  • Call the UB Police Department at (410) 837-5520
  • or report to your nearest emergency room

Suicide Prevention: 1-800-273-TALK (8255); National, Toll-Free, 24 Hour Help

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741-741 for free, 24/7 crisis counseling

The UBalt Student Assistance Program (SAP): Call 1-800-327-2251 24/7 to be connected to a Student Care Coordinator, who is a master's-level clinician. The Student Care Coordinator will assess your needs, screen for emergencies and provide in the moment support. Following the needs assessment, the Student Care Coordinator will work with you to create a plan for support and resolution. Find more information and other ways to contact the SAP here.