Substance Use and Mental Health in the Legal Field: Understanding the Impact and Seeking Support
This course explores the prevalence of mental health issues in the legal profession, focusing on the unique challenges attorneys face and the impact on their overall well-being. It examines contributing factors such as long working hours, unrealistic expectations, and a culture of competitiveness within law firms.
The course also delves into the concept of vicarious trauma and its effects on lawyers, particularly those working with traumatized clients. It addresses mental health challenges in law schools, the role of faculty in supporting student well-being, and the importance of removing barriers to seeking help during the bar application process.
Participants will learn about various support programs and resources available to attorneys, including lawyer assistance programs. The course also explores stress reduction techniques and strategies for promoting a healthier work-life balance.
Through case studies, discussions, and practical tools, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of mental health issues in the legal profession and develop actionable strategies to promote well-being among attorneys.
Some of the topics discussed include:
1 activity • 1 videos • duration: 1h 7m
Director | Nassau County Bar Association Lawyer Assistance Program
Dr. Elizabeth Eckhardt is currently Director of the Nassau County Bar Association’s Lawyer Assistance Program. The Lawyer Assistance Program provides confidential services to lawyers, judges, law students and their families struggling with mental health and substance use issues. Dr. Eckhardt also provides outreach and education to the Legal Community on topics such as resiliency, wellness, mindfulness, stress management, suicide prevention, mental health and substance use. In addition, Dr. Eckhardt has a private psychotherapy practice where she has been providing individual, couple and family therapy for more than 25 years.
Great insight and discussion. Audio a little low, but still decent.
Yes - Have been an attorney for 40 years and think I have been aware of but not ready to embrace the acceptance of techniques to address stress that has impacted me from the very first day that I walked into law school orientation. Mentality is that you never want to show them that you are frightened by the inherent sense of competition and aggressiveness of those entering this field. Defense mechanism at work that says I have to assume that position as well to survive with the front runners and deny your need for the tools of self-help as a sign of weakness and vulnerability. Think personal acceptance as to the value of support that is available is as important as them being there. This is my view as to the single most important take away from this well articulated presentation from both presenters.
good review of issue
That was one of the best mental health and substance abuse seminars. The presenter was very well organized, personable, and gave me an idea of establishing a Virtual Office. The questioning attorney also was great in her questions, and guiding the speaker. That was a WOW.
