As an attorney, it can feel difficult to address and process the stigma attached to addiction. The legal profession can be a challenging and fast-paced work environment, and many lawyers are expected to deal with heavy workloads and pressure. Unfortunately, when stress and exhaustion meet substance abuse, the results can be devastating. While addiction can affect anyone, attorneys have an even higher risk of facing addiction due to the pressures of their work.
Unfortunately, addiction is still not discussed openly in the legal profession. The majority of the legal profession puts on a “professional” face, which can make discussing addiction difficult and embarrassing. As a result, many attorneys suffer in silence. They fear that seeking help for addiction will cause them to lose their license, or worse, their jobs.
It’s important for all attorneys to understand the real risks and facts of addiction. Addiction is a medical illness and not a personal failing or choice. It is treatable, and attempting to self-medicate or hide the symptoms of addiction can only make the situation worse. There is help available and support from peers, professionals, and even family and friends.
In addition, the legal profession needs to continue to take steps to address the stigma of addiction. It’s important to recognize just how common addiction is, and how treatable it is. Attorney Well-Being initiatives should actively encourage all attorneys to seek appropriate mental health and addiction care services. Professional organizations should also include addiction education and support in their continuing legal education programs.
It’s critical that attorneys have access to self-care and support services, so that they can find healthy ways to de-stress and manage heavy workloads. These may include mindfulness-based activities and self-care strategies like exercise and leisure activities. Attorneys should also have access to counseling and comprehensive mental health and addiction care services, as well as support from peers and even family and friends.
Finally, attorneys should try and become more understanding and supportive of other professionals facing similar situations. Everyone is susceptible to addiction and, without a supportive environment, it can be difficult to make the decision to seek help. Attorneys should take the lead in destigmatizing addiction in the legal profession and creating an environment of acceptance and understanding.
Addiction is a growing problem in the legal profession, and it’s important that attorneys take steps to address this issue. By understanding that addiction is a medical issue, and not a moral failing, attorneys can open up the conversation and create an environment of support for those struggling with addiction. With appropriate self-care, counseling, and addiction treatment, attorneys can move forward and continue their practice, without fear of stigma.