Jason Murrey: Why JLAP? Even the best must call in for air support.

In “Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy Seals Lead and Win,” Leif Babin details the mission-critical expectations set by his commanding officer, Jocko Willink, for understanding the ins and outs of their radios and how to make an effective call using them. Willink even stressed that everyone be held accountable to one another for completing this order. For me, it was in Marine combat training that I learned to work a radio and make a call using map grid coordinates. If my military occupation had been that of a radioman or grunt, I’m sure the training would have been more extensive. However, what was clear in my training and from the book was that even the best trained and most prepared individuals may need to call in air support from time to time.

The Indiana Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program serves the legal profession much like air support aids troops on the ground during a difficult mission. Troops operating in dangerous and unpredictable environments rely on air support for protection, guidance, reinforcement and rescue when conditions become overwhelming. In the same way, judges, lawyers and law students often work in high-pressure environments where stress, anxiety, trauma and exhaustion can quietly build over time. JLAP provides a critical support system that helps legal professionals remain stable, focused and capable of continuing their mission when professional and personal pressures intensify.

Talk to me, ‘Goose’

Judicial isolation is often regarded as the top emotional strain encountered by judges. Unfortunately, this creates stigma that makes it challenging for judges to speak to one another about what is going on in their lives. Or they just may not want to talk to a peer. JLAP is often called to be a non-judgmental, listening ear and to serve as the copilot who will tell judges what we see from the 30,000-foot view. Like a steady aircraft overhead offering guidance, JLAP’s support helps judges maintain clarity, professionalism and personal well-being while carrying enormous responsibility.

Call an air traffic controller

For lawyers, JLAP becomes a lifeline in a profession known for chronic stress, long hours, an adversarial environment and perfectionist expectations. Attorneys frequently carry the emotional burdens of their clients while simultaneously managing billable hours, deadlines, financial pressure and ethical responsibilities. These conditions can create significant anxiety, depression, substance misuse and suicidal thoughts within the profession. JLAP offers counseling referrals, peer support, crisis response and wellness education to help lawyers take control of their well-being and regain stability after periods of turbulence.

Rough sky, smooth landings

Law students also can benefit from reaching out to JLAP as they navigate one of the most demanding academic and professional transitions of their lives. The pressure to compete, achieve high grades, secure internships and prepare for the bar exam can create immense fatigue. It’s like taking a trans-Atlantic flight — hard on the body, mind and spirit. Many students experience loneliness, fear of failure, sleep deprivation and declining mental health during law school. JLAP serves as early air cover for these future legal professionals by offering emotional support, mentorship, wellness education and crisis assistance before problems become debilitating. Interactions with JLAP help build resilience and healthier coping strategies that can sustain law students throughout their flight so they can enjoy their destination.

Further together

A less observed role of air support is preventing isolation among the troops who are on the ground. Troops on the ground are stronger when they know support systems are actively watching over them and are prepared to respond when needed. Legal professionals often suffer in silence because the culture of the profession can discourage vulnerability or asking for help. JLAP changes that dynamic by reminding judges, lawyers and law students that they are not alone. JLAP creates a trusted network of professionals and peers who understand the unique pressures of legal work and who are prepared to respond without judgment or ridicule.

Let JLAP be your wingman

JLAP functions as a strategic support system by helping legal professionals recognize risks before they become emergencies. JLAP promotes education about mental health, substance misuse, stress management and grief so that legal professionals can identify warning signs early. When called upon, JLAP strengthens the overall readiness and resilience of an individual, firm or court by encouraging prevention and self-awareness. Air support strengthens troop effectiveness by ensuring access to resources needed to continue the mission safely. JLAP performs the same function within the legal field by helping individuals remain mentally, emotionally and professionally capable despite the intense demands of their work.

JLAP represents hope, connection and healing for members of the legal profession. Just as troops on the ground gain confidence knowing air support is available during dangerous moments, judges, lawyers and law students can benefit from knowing confidential and compassionate help is always within reach. JLAP doesn’t eliminate every hardship or remove every challenge, but it provides the reinforcement necessary to help legal professionals persevere through adversity. In a profession where emotional battles are often fought quietly, JLAP serves as the steady presence overhead — ready to guide, support and help carry people safely through the storm.•

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Murrey is deputy director of JLAP and a licensed mental health counselor associate.