“Judges cannot take off the robe in everyday interactions outside the courthouse, which is a hallmark of their elevated status in society but also a reality that can contribute to social isolation.”
2017 Report of the National Task Force on Lawyer Well-Being
The importance of having a healthy judicial branch can never be overstated. Acknowledging the problem of stress and burnout among judicial officers is an important starting point. Judicial officers are held to high standards of ethics and competence in their personal and professional lives. These responsibilities come with immense responsibilities and judicial officers are not immune from the effects of stress. Heavy caseloads, difficult decisions and demanding schedules negatively affect the physical, mental, emotional and behavioral health of even the most resilient, seasoned judicial officers. Without the proper support these conditions will affect a judicial officer’s performance inside and outside of the courtroom, making the well-being of the judiciary a high priority for ensuring fair and equitable access to justice.
Dependency court judicial officers make tough decisions on a daily basis that have temporarily or permanently impacts on the lives of children, families and communities. As a result of this immense responsibility, judicial officers experience high rates of chronic stress which may lead or contribute to anxiety, depression, alcohol/substance abuse, and mental health issues. Because of their unique judicial position, those same judicial officers often face these challenges in secrecy and isolation, fearing that they have nowhere to turn for help without potentially jeopardizing their position or their professional career. FYJP is here to help connect judicial officers to needed support and assistance. Check out the menu below to see the wellness resources available for judicial officers.
Judicial Wellness is Worth It!
Resources & Links
(NCJFCJ)
(Colorado Superior Court)
