With the twists and turns faced by lawyers transitioning from active practice to retirement, as well as the rising cases of mental health challenges in today’s Nigeria, occasioned by the current economic realities, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Welfare Committee, led by its Chairman, Dr. Ogwu James Onoja, SAN and the National Welfare Secretary, Nyada Auta on Friday hosted a webinar titled Leadership, Legacy & Loneliness: Mental Health in the Twilight of a Legal Career.
Among the many speakers, including a former Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, who delivered the Keynote address, was Alice Agada, who delved into breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.
In her presentation, ‘Between Legacy and Loneliness: The Mental Health Realities for Ageing Lawyers – The Silence, The Fears and the Loss of Routine’, Agada noted that breaking the stigma surrounding mental health entails establishing and nurturing open
environments where individuals can openly discuss their challenges and seek assistance.
According to the mental health expert, this necessitates lawyers embracing vulnerability, which can be daunting given their customary role as problem solvers and pillars of strength for their clients.
“The pressure to maintain a flawless image often clashes with the idea of acknowledging personal mental health struggles. However, vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength that shapes a lawyer’s journey.
“Loneliness is a common human experience that extends beyond physical isolation to include feelings of disconnect and solitude in the midst of others. The reluctance to express negative emotions or seek support can exacerbate this sense of loneliness.
“Embracing vulnerability can alter this narrative by recognizing that lawyers are also human, and acknowledging their struggles is a stepping stone towards personal growth and a more fulfilling life.
“As lawyers transition from active practice to retirement, routines evolve and life takes
unexpected turns. Coping with solitude in retirement can be challenging, but it presents an
opportunity to cultivate a new phase of life by engaging in mentorship programs, meaningful volunteering, and reconnecting with loved ones.
“Embracing the changing narrative of life’s phases can lead to a renewed sense of purpose and connection, easing the discomfort of loneliness and creating a fulfilling routine in this new chapter of life”, she said.
“Great initiative by the NBA Welfare Committee! Recognizing mental health struggles and embracing vulnerability can indeed be a powerful step towards healing and growth. Lawyers, like everyone else, deserve support and understanding.”