Problems with alcohol or other drugs can be temporary or chronic. The most serious form is known as Substance Use Disorder ("SUD"). SUD is not defined or diagnosed by the amount and frequency of use of a substance, but by the thinking and behaviors exhibited.
The Roman poet Horace said, “Lawyers are men who hire out their words and their anger.” Unchecked anger, however, makes us less effective as advocates and can be a symptom of deeper issues.
More than 60% of lawyers report dealing with anxiety at some point in their careers. Because lawyers are trained to anticipate, navigate, and mitigate uncertainty, we are at greater risk for developing an anxiety disorder.
Empathy strain and compassion fatigue may result from encountering high volumes of distressing material when working in a helping capacity where demands outweigh resources. In short: doing too much, for too long, and working with the big uglies in life.
Research shows 25% of lawyers currently suffer from clinical depression, while 50% report suffering at some point in their career – the highest rate of any profession. Lawyers who die by suicide are 91% more likely to have job problems that contributed to their death.
If you have suffered a devastating loss, just know that you are not alone, even though you may feel as if you are.
Law practice requires us to subvert our own needs, feelings, and values in order to zealously advocate for our clients. When this crosses the line into unhealthy behavior in our personal lives, we may become preoccupied with meeting the needs of others while ignoring our own needs.
Behaviors like gambling, looking at internet pornography, video gaming, shopping, and eating can also be compulsive and addictive, requiring intervention and treatment.
We each must find a way to practice law that does not emotionally demolish us in the process. The LAP provides support and assistance all along the way and our volunteers share what has worked for them.
There are three main ways LAP encounters and assists with trauma: 1. unresolved childhood trauma, 2. secondary trauma and compassion fatigue, and 3. acute crisis events. Each has its own cause, symptoms, and path to healing.
LAP volunteers and clients use the strategies and suggestions identified below to maintain and prioritize their personal well-being. You can, too.
