OBJECTIVES:
Rates
of substance use and other mental health concerns among attorneys are
relatively unknown, despite the potential for harm that attorney impairment
poses to the struggling individuals themselves, and to our communities,
government, economy, and society. This study measured the prevalence of these
concerns among licensed attorneys, their utilization of treatment services, and
what barriers existed between them and the services they may need.
METHODS:
A sample
of 12,825 licensed, employed attorneys completed surveys, assessing alcohol
use, drug use, and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.
RESULTS:
Substantial
rates of behavioral health problems were found, with 20.6% screening positive
for hazardous, harmful, and potentially alcohol-dependent drinking. Men had a
higher proportion of positive screens, and also younger participants and those
working in the field for a shorter duration (P < 0.001). Age group predicted
Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test scores; respondents 30 years of age
or younger were more likely to have a higher score than their older peers
(P < 0.001). Levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among attorneys were
significant, with 28%, 19%, and 23% experiencing symptoms of depression,
anxiety, and stress, respectively.
CONCLUSIONS:
Attorneys
experience problematic drinking that is hazardous, harmful, or otherwise
consistent with alcohol use disorders at a higher rate than other professional
populations. Mental health distress is also significant. These data underscore
the need for greater resources for lawyer assistance programs, and also the
expansion of available attorney-specific prevention and treatment interventions.
Below: Participant Characteristics
Below: Professional Characteristics
- 1Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation (PRK, RJ); Wisconsin Lawyers Assistance Program (LA).
- J Addict Med. 2016 Feb;10(1):46-52. doi: 10.1097/ADM.0000000000000182.
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