Scholarly and lay publications regularly report that compared to those in other professions, lawyers have some of the highest rates of substance abuse, depression and mood disorders. Educating yourself is essential in addressing the concerns that can hamper a career.
The information below should not be mistaken for mental health diagnoses. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms below, help is available. The counselors at LAP are available to consult with you individually on a broad range of mental health issues.
Links are to information provided by the American Bar Association.
Alcohol Abuse and Dependence
As many as 1 in 5 lawyers experiences a drinking problem. Treatment is available.
Contact LAP for recomendations on groups, both AA and non-AA, throughout the state, including some that are specifically for attorneys.
More about the signs, symptoms, and effects of alcohol abuse.
Drug Abuse and Dependence
Addiction can have a devastating effect on a lawyers career. Addiction is a treatable disease.
More about the signs, symptoms, and effects of drug abuse and dependence.
Stress
The demands of the legal profession can cause lawyers to expierence harmful amounts of negative stress.
More about the symptoms and managment of stress.
Depression
Depression is common and treatable.
More about the symptoms and treatment of depression.
Compulsive Behaviors
Compulsive behaviors are those that are repeated due to a strong impulse — such as gambling, eating, or shopping — often against the individual's self interest.
More about the symptoms and treatment of compulsive behaviors.
Suicide
There is a strong correlation between suicide and the mental health issues listed above.
More about the warning signs of suicide and prevention strategies.
If you have had thoughts of suicide, we encourage you to contact a LAP counselor. LAP does not, however, have the staffing capacity to provide 24/7 emergency coverage. If you feel in crisis, please call 911 or contact your local crisis hotline if one is available. National hotlines are available 24/7: 1-800-784-2433 or 1-800-273-8255.