“Busy” has become the default response. How was your day? Busy. Your weekend? Busy. Your holiday? Still busy.
In the legal profession, busyness is often worn as a badge of honour. But when every moment is filled, stress quietly accumulates. Over time, that stress affects our physical health, mood, concentration and decision-making – all critical in a profession where judgement and precision matter.
Stress doesn’t stay neatly at work either. It spills into home life, relationships and our ability to engage fully with the community. While work can provide purpose, structure and connection, it can also expose people to psychosocial hazards such as excessive workloads, conflict, lack of support or poor job clarity.
Legislation now recognises that psychological health is as important as physical safety in the workplace. This shift is welcome, but creating healthier workplaces isn’t achieved by policy alone, it requires people who know what to look for and how to respond.
Mental health first aid training equips participants with practical skills to recognise when someone may be struggling, start supportive conversations, and guide people towards appropriate help. It also helps participants better understand and manage their own stress.
A two-day course can feel like a significant time commitment. However, the skills gained often save time in the long run through earlier intervention, fewer crises and stronger, more supportive teams. This is not about adding another task to an already full schedule, it is about building capability that makes work more sustainable.
The Law Society is facilitating a mental health first aid course to support members’ wellbeing and strengthen the profession. Investing two days now may make a lasting difference to colleagues, clients, and yourself.
Mental health first aid training
Thursday 19 and Friday 20 February 2026, 8.30am-4.30pm.
In-person at the Law Society of Western Australia.
3 units C1 Practice Management and Business Skills, 3 units C2 Professional Skills.
Register here: https://lawsocietywa.asn.au/events/mental-health-first-aid-training/
