Supporting Attorneys
and other legal professionals
To say that being a lawyer is hard is an understatement. The pressures to perform, work 60-80+ hour work weeks and to make a name for yourself are stifling. In 2016, The American Bar Association and the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation issued a joint study on the "Prevalence of Substance Use and Other Mental Health Concerns Among American Attorneys." Over 13,000 attorneys were surveyed and the findings were alarming:
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28% of participants reported experiencing depression
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19% of participants reported symptoms of anxiety
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23% of participants reported high levels of stress
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20% of participants reported problematic drinking (which is over twice the percentage of the general adult population)
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11.5% of participants reported suicidal thoughts at some point in their career (1% reporting at least 1 prior suicide attempt)
Attorneys are experiencing problematic drinking and drug use at significantly higher rates than other professional populations. We know that there is a great need for attorney specific prevention and treatment interventions but attorneys are not seeking help. The two most common self-reported barriers are:
I don't want anyone to know that I need help.
I am concerned about my privacy and confidentiality.
Let me help.
In addition to being a mental health counselor, I have 10+ years of experience working in the legal field. I know the stressors you are dealing with. You won't have to fill me in on the aspects of your professional culture because I already know what it is like.
As a legal professional, you know all about attorney-client privilege. Similarly, as a counselor, I am also bound by confidentiality ethics and laws. Know that your privacy will be strictly maintained so you can seek treatment confidently and safely.
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Together, we can help you find healing and get the support you need.
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