Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological and social wellbeing. It is what enables us to respond to the challenges of life and build resiliency -- this is what helps individuals deal effectively with the demands and challenges of everyday life. Physical and mental health are closely connected, so understanding that caring for one’s overall mental health can lead to reduced risks of anxiety and depression, improved sleep patterns, and overall quality of life. This is an essential part of our overall mental health.

Our feelings, thoughts and actions all play a part, so it is imperative to have the right support and tools in place. This is why UConn Law makes mental health programming and initiatives a core focus of the community.

Law students across the country are reporting an increasing need for support with mental health, wellness, and wellbeing while in law school, as reported in the 2021 survey of law student well-being, “It is Okay to Not Be Okay." Many factors may be contributing to this, including the lasting impact of the pandemic, but it is clear that the wellbeing of law students should be — and must be — of paramount concern to all of us.

Multiple studies have shown that lawyers are at risk for depression, anxiety, alcoholism, and suicidal thoughts. Providing students with the resources and support they need will not only help them maintain their wellbeing during their time in law school but also as members of the bar. The Office of Student Affairs is an annual signatory of the ABA well-being campaign, which was launched to improve the substance use and mental health landscape of the legal profession. The ABA has a 7-point framework that we are working on integrating into the UConn Law community.

Our on-campus counselor is a crucial resource for our students' mental health. Students may sign up for free and confidential counseling to help deal with the stresses of law school or any personal issues they may be struggling with.

The Office of Student Affairs also provides an array of opportunities for students to come together for relaxation and support, including guest speakers who address wellness topics, family festivals and our popular "midnight" breakfast during exam times.

The student-run Mental Health Committee works with other student organizations and the Office of Student Affairs to foster a sense of community and mutual support. The committee has organized trivia nights, paint nights, group chats, puppy playtimes and many other events and activities.

In addition, the University provides a number of services that are available to our UConn Law students. These include:

• BeWell: a free and confidential mental health support line, available around the clock.
• Togetherall: an anonymous peer-to-peer mental health support community available, also available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
• Kognito: online simulated interactive training to determine when a friend needs help and how to provide it.