Depression: An Occupational Hazard of the Legal Profession

This program, led by Laurie J. Besden, Esq., Executive Director of Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers of Pennsylvania, Inc., addresses the alarming prevalence rates of substance use and mental health disorders in legal professionals. People in the legal profession are dying because it is too painful to ask for help. This must STOP. This course dispels the stigma associated with mental health, which is a roadblock to legal professionals reaching out for help. It provides a comprehensive overview of risk factors and symptoms of depression, compelling reasons detailing why attorneys with depression should seek help, and intervention strategies for attorneys with colleagues in need of support. Finally, the presentation outlines the confidential, free, safe, and supportive resources that are available through lawyers' assistance programs throughout the United States.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Recognize that the stigma associated with mental health disorders is simply an illusion
2. Identify the prevalence of substance use and/or mental health disorder in the legal profession
3. Appreciate that substance use and mental health disorders are chronic, progressive, and fatal if untreated, though the prognosis for recovery is excellent if help is sought (depression has a treatment success rate of 80%)
4. Utilize the confidential, free, safe, and supportive resources that are available through the lawyer's assistance programs throughout the United States