BLOOMBERG LAW — Arguably the worst kept secret in the legal profession is that many of us have poor work-life balance. Stress, burnout, depression, anxiety, and substance use issues are all-too-common phenomena. Efforts to address these problems continue to be largely reactive and piecemeal. Gym memberships and mindfulness classes can only do so much. We need a more far-reaching response to work culture issues, and law schools are a critical, though often-overlooked, part of the solution. Law school is where the next generation of lawyers is first taught the expectations and culture of the legal profession, and the nonstop work culture of law school is harming our profession. Sure, some fondly remember law school as a less hectic time. Too often, however, the lesson law schools impart is that students should expect to sacrifice personal happiness, well-being, and other aspects of life to complete their work. Numerous studies have shown the negative effects of law school on many students’ well-being. The Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated pressures and adverse health consequences. Students today balance law school obligations with work, family duties, child-care responsibilities, and more. This leaves little to no time for self-care. And it shows.