What does the Well-Being Committee do?
Our group offers a wide range of support to legal professionals living and working in the Indianapolis community. Over the years, we've helped more than one hundred lawyers, judges, and paralegals experiencing professional or personal crises. We have a dedicated team of volunteers ready to assist with meals, yardwork, or whatever else our colleagues might need.
Recently, the Well-Being Committee expanded its efforts to include what I call "proactive support" for our members. We're sharing proven, simple ways to improve physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Our legal profession is demanding, and unfortunately, many colleagues struggle with anxiety, depression, loneliness, and substance abuse challenges. Our goal is to address these issues early on, and create a safe, judgment-free space for discussion.
What are the Committee's future plans, and what are you excited about?
I'm particularly excited about our upcoming CLE on May 15th featuring Dr. Kevin Coss, a recently retired physician from Community Health Network and its first Chief Medical Wellness Officer. Dr. Coss will address job burnout in the legal profession and explain why it happens and what we can do to achieve a better work-life balance. Register here for "When Working Harder Isn't Working."
We're also developing, with help from the great Indybar staff, an online resource hub accessible to members 24/7. This platform will connect our community with mental health resources, well-being strategies, and support networks. Learning resilience techniques and effective coping strategies can significantly improve how we work and interact with others.
What does well-being mean to you personally and how do you practice self-care?
Several years ago, post-Covid, I found myself increasingly frustrated with workplace challenges—a backlog of cases coupled with staffing shortages, including court employees, deputy prosecutors and public defenders. I noticed myself becoming uncharacteristically angry and I started bringing that negativity home.
I found help by participating in a six-month long judicial resiliency program, grant-funded by the Indiana Office of Court Services. I developed valuable coping skills that continue to serve me well today. This personal experience reinforced my commitment to well-being practices.
What is the significance of mental health awareness in the legal community?
National surveys consistently show that at least one in five of us experiences depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Substance abuse is also prevalent: an ABA study conservatively estimates more than 20% of legal professionals show signs of problematic drinking. Nearly two-thirds of lawyers surveyed admitted that the practice of law had been detrimental to their mental health. These statistics are alarming, as are the potential consequences if left unaddressed.
How can Indybar members get more involved or request support?
If you'd like to become more involved or receive email announcements about the Well-Being Committee, we'd love to keep you in the loop. Simply fill out this form. If you're seeking help or support, you may request assistance by emailing IBA@indybar.org
If you have questions or comments, please feel free to email me at helen.marchal@indy.gov.
I'd love to hear from you.
The Hon. Helen W. Marchal, Marion Superior Court
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