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:
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.
