No One Makes It Out Unscathed: The Effects of Trauma and Stress On Our Lives

Attorneys hopefully recognize that like many other professionals, their lives are filled to the brim with anxiety and stress. It’s important to be proactive in dealing with it. The consequences of shrugging it off can be catastrophic - not only for them but for their family, staff and friends. One of those consequences is burnout.

 And then there’s trauma. The ramifications of trauma aren’t discussed as frequently as those of stress and thus, for many attorneys, trauma is a topic in need of attention. Trauma can be secondary or vicarious. For example, it can be the cumulative effect of listening to a client or witness relay graphic stories and experiences. Trauma also results from a personal loss such as the death of a family member or a close friend or even the grief associated with lost opportunities and unmet expectations due to the cancellation of long planned events.

We are all dealing with the unexpected impact of a generational and community traumatic event – the COVID-19 Pandemic. It’s important to recognize the signs of trauma in yourself as well as in your office staff, family and clients.

Hear from our experienced speaker as he shares his personal story of trauma and anxiety and learn how you can recognize the unhealthy and potentially life threatening shadow it can cast.

Recent studies have shown that there has been a dramatic increase in impairment due to alcoholism, addiction and mental health disorders among members of the legal profession. The statistics are compelling and clearly indicate that 1 out of 3 attorneys will likely have a need for substance use or mental health services at some point in their careers.

Mr. Quinn will discuss: 

1. The early warning signs of impairment, with special emphasis on stress, burnout and trauma, including the mental health impact of the  COVID-19 pandemic.

2. The free services that Lawyers Assistance Programs provide to lawyers, judges, their family members and law students. 

3.  A close look at what barriers exist that prevent lawyers and judges from seeking the help they need will be provided.

4. The role that education plays in breaking the stigma and fear associated with addiction and mental illness in the legal profession.

5. How best to approach the impaired individual.

6. Ethical considerations regarding the duty to report an impaired attorney and the exceptions granted to Lawyers Assistance Programs. Lastly, he will discuss the ethical challenges imposed by the imposed isolation of the pandemic and it’s possible long lasting effect on the legal profession.