Advocate Urges Kerala High Court Advocates Association To Establish Confidential Mental Health Support System For Lawyers

In a detailed representation to the Secretary of the Kerala High Court Advocates Association (KHCAA), an advocate has called for the creation of a comprehensive and confidential mental health support system for members of the legal fraternity, following recent tragic deaths of advocates linked to mental health distress.

In his letter dated November 5, 2025, Advocate Chelson Chembarathy highlighted that the legal profession imposes severe psychological strain on practitioners, citing studies that show lawyers experience depression at rates 28% higher than the general population, with 23% reporting chronic stress and 19% facing anxiety. He described the situation as a “mental health crisis affecting legal professionals,” urging that it can no longer be ignored.

While noting that several members have suggested setting up a counseling center within the High Court premises, Chelson Chembarathy cautioned that such an initiative could “undermine its own objective” by compromising confidentiality. “A facility within the court premises carries an inherent risk of exposure. The apprehension of being seen visiting an on-site counseling facility could deter the very individuals who need support most urgently,” he observed.

Instead, the advocate proposed a five-point framework for a discreet and effective support system:

• Creation of an expert panel of qualified psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, and counselors within Cochin city limits.
• Formal agreements (MoUs) with these professionals to ensure confidentiality, clear fee structures, and quality standards.
• A direct access model enabling members to consult empaneled professionals privately, without disclosure to peers.
• Awareness initiatives to reduce stigma through workshops and campaigns.
• Periodic reviews to assess effectiveness and member satisfaction.

Citing the Supreme Court's recent observation in Chhavi Singh v. Union of India, Chelson Chembarathy noted that the Court had acknowledged the gravity of the issue but held that Bar Associations must “take the lead and address the issue of mental health” among lawyers. The petition in that case had revealed that at least 20 legal professionals had died by suicide in the preceding year.

“The quality and thoughtfulness of implementation will determine whether this initiative serves as a meaningful support system or merely as a symbolic gesture,” Chembarathy wrote, urging the KHCAA to consult mental health experts and member representatives before launching the program.

He expressed confidence that the Kerala High Court Bar Association could set a model for other Bar Associations nationwide in addressing what he described as “an issue of national significance.”