ILL.Research
Illinois study finds one in five lawyers rate their mental health fair or poor; 3% screen for problem gambling
The Illinois Lawyers' Assistance Program released a statewide survey of more than 6,700 lawyers on October 13, 2026 finding high rates of stress, substance use and mental health strain, with one in five respondents rating their mental health fair or poor. The report's authors said it is the first study of problem gambling prevalence in the U.S. legal profession.
Paper (WBBM Newsradio) → · ABA Journal, Law.com
Key points
- About 12% of Illinois's more than 56,000 lawyers responded to the survey.WBBM NewsradioABA Journal
- Among respondents rating their mental health fair or poor, 32% reported suicidal thoughts in the past year.WBBM Newsradio
- Three percent screened for problem gambling; lawyers aged 25 to 35 were more likely than older peers to be problem gamblers.ABA Journal
- Sixty-six percent said their workplaces harm their health or wellness and would consider leaving.Law.com
- Respondents cited fear of professional repercussions as the main barrier to seeking help.ABA Journal