Burn Out: Immigration Lawyers More Likely to Commit Suicide than Regular Lawyers.

And No it’s not a Good Thing.

Immigration lawyers often handle cases that directly impact their clients' lives, families, and futures. They may represent clients facing deportation or separation from loved ones. Cases can involve refugees, asylum seekers, and victims of human trafficking who have experienced trauma. This emotional weight, combined with the pressure to deliver positive outcomes, can take a significant toll on mental health.

Combine that with unpredictable and complex laws, Immigration law is notorious for being complex and frequently changing. Sudden policy shifts, like executive orders or new immigration enforcement priorities, can make it difficult to provide clear guidance to clients and lead to immense frustration and uncertainty.

Moreover, Immigration lawyers often work under strict deadlines, such as filing asylum applications, responding to deportation orders, or applying for visa extensions. These time pressures, combined with high caseloads, can result in long hours and professional burnout.

As such, Immigration lawyers frequently hear firsthand accounts of clients’ trauma, such as fleeing persecution, abuse, or violence. This exposure to distressing stories can lead to secondary traumatic stress (STS), which mimics symptoms of PTSD. The weight of being a lifeline for people in these vulnerable situations can be overwhelming, especially if outcomes are not favorable.

Also, the U.S. immigration system is notoriously bureaucratic and slow-moving. Immigration lawyers face constant hurdles, such as backlogs, inconsistent application of laws, and cases stuck in administrative limbo, which can lead to professional frustration.

The answer is not cocaine.

Set Boundaries Learn to set emotional and professional boundaries with clients to avoid overextending yourself. Limit after-hours work and schedule downtime.

Join immigration law networks or support groups to share experiences and advice. Professional communities can help alleviate feelings of isolation.

Practice Self-Care Prioritize sleep, nutrition, exercise, and activities that help you recharge. Consider mindfulness or meditation practices to manage stress.

Therapy. Go to therapy

Manage workload and delegate tasks where possible and avoid taking on more cases than you can reasonably handle. Use technology and legal software to streamline workflows.

Demand change and onnect with organizations that push for reforms in the immigration system to address the structural inefficiencies that contribute to professional stress.