Male solicitors are getting better at asking for help with problems caused by stress and depression, research revealed last week.

Figures released by lawyers' support group LawCare showed that almost half of calls about stress and depression to its helpline came from men in 2003, compared to 42% in the previous year.

Of 220 calls last year, 58% were about stress or depression, 15% related to alcohol addiction and 14% concerned bullying at work.

As many as 70% of bullying calls were from women, particularly those in junior roles.

A spokeswoman for LawCare said: 'We are very encouraged that more men are coming forward with their stress and depression problems.'

LawCare helpline: 0800 279 6888

Rachel Rothwell