Illinois Survey Revealed Problem Gambling Among Attorneys

A new survey of state lawyers highlighted gambling habits alongside ongoing mental health concerns.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Gambling

Gouache-painted illustration of a heavy brass weight balanced on a single red poker chip, representing professional pressure and risk. — A recent survey from the Illinois Lawyers Assistance Program revealed that 3% of responding attorneys reported struggling with problem gambling. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Illinois Lawyers Assistance Program has released a comprehensive mental health survey of the state's legal profession. Results indicated that 3% of responding attorneys reported struggling with problem gambling.

Why it matters

Many legal professionals avoid seeking help for these issues due to fears regarding potential professional repercussions. The findings shed light on the challenges lawyers face balancing intense workloads with personal well-being.

Of the lawyers identifying as problem gamblers, 53% reported betting at least once per week, while 12% reported gambling almost daily. Additionally, 22% of all surveyed attorneys reported moderate to severe symptoms of depression.

The players

Illinois Lawyers Assistance Program

This organization provides support and resources to members of the legal profession dealing with substance abuse and mental health challenges.

The details

The study included responses from 6,700 participants to better understand the intersection of stress, substance use, and gambling within the legal field. Younger lawyers between the ages of 25 and 35 were found to have higher rates of problem gambling than their older colleagues.

A study regarding lawyer mental health was released in September 2026.
The Illinois Lawyers Assistance Program released the survey results on October 13, 2026.

Culture Shift

The Illinois findings follow the trends established in the 2026 American Bar Association study on lawyer mental health by highlighting persistent high rates of professional stress. This suggests that the legal profession is undergoing a shift toward greater transparency regarding the mental health risks inherent to the practice.

Legal professionals in Illinois may need to evaluate their own stress management practices in light of the survey results. These findings highlight the importance of utilizing available state resources to address gambling habits before they impact one's career and personal life.

The takeaway

Recognizing the symptoms of problem gambling early is a critical step for professionals facing high-stress workloads. Attorneys are encouraged to reach out to dedicated support programs to address these challenges in a confidential manner.