Finding Balance in Law: Stress, Support, and Speaking Up.

Finding Balance in Law: Stress, Support, and Speaking Up

April marks Stress Awareness Month, a timely reminder that even in high-achieving professions like law, looking after your wellbeing isn’t a luxury - it’s essential.

In a recent conversation during their Partners in Crime Podcast, the Speed Mooting team, Hayley and John opened up about the unique pressures that come with working in law. Whether you’re a student, a trainee, or a seasoned professional, their insights are a reminder that stress is common; but it can be managed.

“The law can be overwhelming and a bit stressful at times. So how do you cope with that?”

It starts, Hayley says, with self-awareness. Everyone has a different stress threshold. For one person, it might be juggling three deadlines; for someone else, it might be managing one high-stakes case. The key is recognising your limit and being honest about when you’re nearing it.

Having worked in private practice in commercial law firms, Hayley knows the intensity firsthand: “In Litigation, it’s a fight every day. Every case is a battle.” Yet, even in high pressure environments, the first step is being able to name the problem: Is it your caseload? Is it unrealistic expectations? Too many moving deadlines?

Once you can identify the source of the pressure, the next step is seeking support. That might come from a manager, a mentor, peers, or even friends and family. Talking about it helps, and as John points out, most firms will work with you - if you ask. Communication is vital, and choosing a workplace where you feel safe to raise these concerns is non-negotiable.

“If you don’t feel supported, it might be time to consider whether you’re in the right place.”

There’s no shame in reassessing your environment. Some organisations just won’t be the right fit, and that's okay. Finding the right cultural match, where you feel valued and supported, makes all the difference.

But it’s not just about the workplace. Stress management also relies heavily on what’s outside of work: hobbies, family time, space to disconnect. Hayley shares that for her, it’s family time and for John bit of karting. For others, it might be reading, running, or a Netflix binge. Whatever it is, make time for it.

“You’ve got to protect time for what helps you switch off.”

Of course, there will be busy spells. Hayley and John recall a hectic February where work completely took over, but they planned for it and made sure quieter, more relaxing weeks followed. It’s about finding a rhythm that works for you, and checking in with yourself regularly. 

In law, stress is often worn as a badge of honour. But that culture is shifting. Speaking up about stress isn’t weakness, it’s wisdom.

So this month, take a moment. Reflect. Ask yourself honestly: What’s working? What’s not? And what do I need to change? 

Because law might be tough—but you don’t have to be all the time.