Lawyer Mental Health and Substance Use Impairment: Recognition, Risk Factors, and Prevention in the Legal Profession

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Recent studies have shown that there has been a dramatic increase in impairment due to alcoholism, addiction and mental health disorders among members of the legal profession. The statistics are compelling and clearly indicate that 1 out of 3 attorneys will likely have a need for substance use or mental health services at some point in their careers. Accordingly, events like those we are facing as a society and as a profession will have an even greater impact on lawyers and those who work with them. 

It is imperative that we are all armed with the tools to stay healthy ourselves and the insight of how to approach someone who may be struggling. Certain approaches yield greater results than others. The "Intervention" methods shown on television, while often compelling, don't typically produce excellent results – especially with members of the legal profession.

As lawyers, we all know that language is often the key to success. Why should we expect it to differ in the life and death struggle to help someone who suffers from alcohol or substance misuse or a mental health disorder? With the alarming number of suicides in our profession, it tells us that people would rather die than ask for help - and this must stop.

Mr. Quinn will discuss:

• Causes, symptoms and common warning signs of alcohol and substance use disorders, as well as mental health issues such as depression, stress and anxiety.

• Fear associated with the uncertainty surrounding the future of the legal industry.

• Well- being strategies to reduce or alleviate these conditions and maintain a healthy work/life balance.

• Why legal professionals are at higher risk to develop mental health and substance use disorders.

• Challenges and barriers facing legal professionals from seeking help.

• The free, confidential services provided by Lawyers Assistance Programs to lawyers, judges, their family members and law students.

• The role that education plays in breaking the stigma and fear associated with addiction and mental illness in the legal profession.

 

To register for the upcoming live webinar, please Click Here