Aug 25, 2023
As a junior practitioner who has suffered
debilitating mental health struggles, Kian Rafie is determined to
see the legal profession get better at talking openly about our
individual experiences. Talking, he says, can make all the
difference. (Content warning: This episode contains content that
may be disturbing or distressing to some listeners. Discretion is
advised.)
On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy
speaks with Piper Alderman lawyer Kian Rafie about the importance
of having more frequent conversations about mental health struggles
for lawyers, his motivation to be a lawyer, and his journey with
and through anxiety, depression and suicide ideation as a junior
practitioner.
Mr Rafie also reflects on where he is now relative to years gone
by, the support he has received from legal professionals, why
talking is so important, overcoming the bravado that exists among
Australian men, balancing the need to protect one’s self in a
still-traditional sector versus addressing one’s struggles,
practical steps that have helped him get better, and other words of
wisdom based on his experience for those coming through the
ranks.
Help is available via Lifeline on 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue at
1300 22 4636. Each law society and bar association also has
resources available on their respective websites.
If you like this episode, show your support
by rating
us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers
Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social
media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of
interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to
the show, email editor@lawyersweekly.com.au for
more insights!