Signs Of Addiction In The Legal Profession

Oftentimes, a wide array of people may be quite knowledgeable in regards to information related to addiction. Yet still, substance abuse is something that is frequently overlooked in various workplaces—by not only the individual, but his/her surrounding peers, and/or co-workers. As a result of such, the stress that legal professionals experience may make it hard for them to feel as though they can open up—and confide in others—about what they are going through.

Sadly, some might even be able to spot addictive behaviors within one of their co-workers, but chose to ignore it for a number of reasons, such as; being unsure of what to do, not wanting to overstep one’s boundary, facing uncertainty on how to get involved, etc. However, it is smart for one to keep an eye out for irregularities—and/or unusual work ethic—within those that surround them. Some signs to look out for are listed as follows; “missed deadlines or appointments, not returning calls; hostile, inappropriate, or odd behavior in professional situations; deterioration in record keeping, managing funds, etc; changes in appearance/grooming/manner of speech; readily tearful or overwhelmed; and/or a colleague actually confides that his/her life (eg., marital, financial) is in shambles.”

In turn, if action isn’t taken, addicts—within the legal field—who begin to face one or more forms of substance abuse, can find their lives taking a turn for the worst. That’s why it is so important for one to find help early on so that he/she can receive the treatment he/she needs—with the assistance of a medical professional. Not only that, but a medical professional will know how to aid in the best recovery for legal executives—since he/she holds experience with such. But unfortunately, it may pose as difficult at times for one to be able to recognize if another is facing addiction because certain people are easily able to pass as functioning—and/or functional—users.

In conclusion, no matter what one’s career is—and/or what he/she specializes in—he/she still deserves the right to treatment/rehabilitation for his/her addiction. For, it is through such that he/she can begin to handle what he/she is going through—mentally/emotionally—in a much healthier way. A speedy recovery can then draw itself closer to that individual, and help him/her to handle what he/she is going through a whole lot differently—for oftentimes addiction isn’t noticed by the individual himself/herself, but from those on the outside looking in.

Employment Following Legal Executive Addiction Treatment

Legal professionals who struggle with addiction—along with other high risk professions—may feel as though there is no hope for them. Reasons for such can stem from the stress of their career, personal life—and so on—but despite such they might still find themselves not wanting to leave. However, even though individuals may not want to forfeit their jobs, after they have received both necessary and needed treatment, there is the opportunity for employment following such.

First, recovery can benefit those facing drug or alcohol abuse by allowing them to continue in their employment—after completion. It is through such that legal professionals are better able to maintain focus on the cases at hand, as well as other tasks. Yet still, for one to get to this point he/she must be able to be honest with not only himself/herself, but his/her boss—as well as others he/she might feel comfortable confiding in. In fact, it is okay for one to take some time away from his/her work environment to rediscover himself/herself—while in the midst of further understanding his/her addiction. This also gives that individual the opportunity to learn what might be the source of his/her abuse—whether it be stress from his/her legal surroundings, something else, or a combination of both.

In addition, several laws have been put into effect to help addicts to re-enter the workforce, or to ensure that they don’t lose their jobs while attending rehab. Some of these laws are listed as follows; Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Fair Housing Act (FHA), the Workforce Investment Act (WIA), etc. Yet still, grave consequences can still follow legal executives depending on whether or not they take action to ensure a healthy well being—or whether or not they let reputation triumph over recovery.

In conclusion, individuals who have trouble with substance abuse have the ability to keep their jobs—and even obtain better—after they have finished treatment. However, if one refuses to undergo rehab, then that can pose as a big problem, because they can continue to lose focus in their workplace—and may even refrain from doing work all together. Therefore, it is best for one to seek help while he/she can because when he/she gets back there will be a job there for him/her—whether it be where he/she used to be, or elsewhere. But, if he/she chooses not to, there won’t always be an addiction free life.

PTSD, Substance Abuse, & Law

First and foremost, PTSD (also known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) is defined as, “a condition of persistent mental and emotional stress occurring as a result of injury or severe psychological shock.” As a result of such, one who struggles with this condition may struggle to sleep, and even replay/recall the experience in particular. Unfortunately, what goes unnoticed by many is how common this disorder is in the legal field. For, what happens beneath the briefcase and the clean cut suit is a whole lot more than what meets the eye.

In turn, PTSD is a big factor linked to substance abuse—which can lay its foundation as early as law school. For, the stress that comes through long hours of studying—and/or restless nights—while preparing for exams can begin to take a toll on one’s mental health. Not only that, but since the legal profession is very competitive this can pose as barren ground for addiction to take root. The reason centers around the fact that such a system plots a wide range of peers against each other, forcing them into isolation as they try and gain the upper hand.

Consequently, feelings of melancholy can begin to settle in the place of one who was once happy, as his/her school work—and/or future career—begin to take over his/her life in great excess. Not only that, but the unfortunate symptoms that come through PTSD—such as restless sleep—can also cause individuals to begin using, whether it be through alcohol or drugs. They may try and find relief—and/or a way to sleep—but in the midst of such impact their well being in an unhealthy way. For, what starts out as a simple way to sleep—and/or maybe even a way to stay up longer and cope with anxiety—can grow into that of a full fledged addiction.

In conclusion, PTSD and substance abuse closely correlate in the legal profession—more than one might think. As a result of such, it’s important that aspiring lawyers—and/or ones who are already established—who are struggling with addiction get help early. In doing so, they might find better ways to cope/handle the high demand that comes through work, school, or both—and be better equipped for such. It is then that they can find an outlet—and/or quicker road to recovery. For, those who are in high demand professions don’t have to go through it alone, and are brave to seek help/treatment—in the midst of a profession that’s highly reputable.

The Mental Health Of Legal Professionals In Relation To Clients

When one thinks of mental health issues he/she might first begin by looking at the individual himself/herself who is struggling with such. However, oftentimes in doing so, he/she fails to recognize the contributing outside sources—which play a big part, especially in the legal field. For, the stress that lawyers are faced with—through clients—can be a key factor in that of their addiction.

First and foremost, those in the legal profession may find themselves already dealing with tight knit deadlines, and when problems arise with clients this can make it difficult for them to keep on track. In turn, these intense client demands can cause everything to be pushed back—and/or pushed around—in that law firm, and cause unneeded stress for lawyers.

Unplanned circumstances such as this can be unnerving for anyone—no matter whether they work in the legal field or not. Such situations can cause even more frustration if they are not of extreme urgency, because they still must be done—and/or completed—for client satisfaction. As a result, it is as though such takes precedence over what was being worked on prior.

Second is the routine that comes through the particular type of work a lawyer engages in. For oftentimes, after years of working in the same law firm—or with certain cases—it can begin to grow old, especially with little to no promotion. It is through such that lawyers may grow depressed, feeling as though their work—as well as themselves—don’t amount too much.

They may find themselves disheartened by the point that they are at within their lives—almost as though they’re at a stand still. It as though they can’t be at the peak of their legal career any longer, but they also can’t move forward due to their existing experience—so they are therefore stuck in limbo. As a result, addiction can ground itself—in the midst of their mental health being breached.

In conclusion, the routine of particular client case work, as well as intense client demands can cause deterred mental health in that of lawyers. For, they can begin to feel overwhelmed—and various hardships such as; anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, etc. can present themselves. As a result, lawyers may find themselves struggling to cope and using alcohol or drugs as a scapegoat.

Therefore, it is best for those who are struggling with addiction—in relation to mental health issues that stem from work—to get the help they need when they begin to feel unlike themselves. For, there’s no such thing as getting help too early; it’s always better now than later.

Pressures In The Legal Field

First and foremost, there are a number of pressures that those in legal professions experience and endure on a daily basis, which can contribute to their use of drugs, alcohol, or both. For, oftentimes, they spend a majority of their career—hours on end—studying case work. As a result of such, this not only causes frequent exhaustion, but contributes to an overworked mind and body.

In turn, this can cause them to look for alternative ways—and/or methods—to cope. But, unfortunately, the pressure may cause them to avert their attention in the direction of drugs to keep them awake, or to keep them relaxed. Therefore, when the stress begins to overwhelm them, and they find themselves unable to focus, or stay awake, they can consume stimulants ranging from adderall to cocaine, etc.

However, the downfall of such is that through even one time of use, the feeling(s) that they experience as a result of such, can cause frequent use to take place—eventually leading to addiction. The brain then begins to grow accustomed to that which is taking place within the individual’s body every time that they consume the drug/alcohol—and the pressures that they experience within their workplace are oftentimes a big factor of such.

Yet, even then, most individuals who do abuse are still able to continue on with their day-to-day tasks because they are highly functioning. In turn, this can pose as a cause for concern because some might not even realize the extent of their addiction. Furthermore, addiction isn’t always something noticeable, but can be hidden just as easily, especially by those who are of a particular

 legal profession. For, they may be afraid to ask for help, due to thoughts of what it may do to their image or reputation, and look just as normal as a healthy person would—but what lies underneath could be more than meets the eye.

In conclusion, a great number of lawyers struggle with addiction on a daily basis due to the extensive amount of stress that they may experience in the midst of their case work, clientele, and their image/reputation. As a result of such, they may find themselves using so that they may stay focused on their work, or may be doing so in response to the stress and anxiety that they are experiencing. Therefore, it is important that no matter his/her profession, an individual who is struggling with addiction is better of getting help soon, rather than not at all.

The Executive Rehab Experience

executive rehabIf you are shopping for a rehab for yourself or your loved one, you should be aware that not all rehabs are created equal. The addiction rehab selection process should be undertaken carefully in order to avoid regret and less than adequate service. For a profession such as an attorney, executive rehab is a valuable recovery method because it is designed specifically for high profile individuals. Executive rehab is a step above the rest when it comes to quality treatment.

The first thing a client experiences in executive rehab is a detoxification period if they were abusing a substance. Those who were not abusing a substance skip this step. It is very important that a person’s physical health and mental clarity are as strong as they can possibly be, which is why a detoxification period may be necessary to rid a client’s body of toxins. It is very important that people do not attempt this step on their own because severe withdrawal symptoms can prove dangerous, even deadly, to the person detoxing. The supervision of a medical professional and the addition of detox medications is necessary.

Once a client is fully detoxed, they can begin their recovery program. In executive rehab, treatment can be expected to be intelligent, immersive and effective. The level of the treatment will be tailored to suit a highly effective working professional. The material will be challenging, engaging and progressive. The client will receive plenty of one on one time with a professional counselor, and the rest of the time will work with a professional facilitator who will guide them in lesson plans and mental health sessions. When they are not doing work, they will have access to a number of resort style amenities, including a full business center, a gym, a sauna, a hot tub and a game room, depending on the rehab. Addiction recovery presents its share of challenges, but wondering whether or not you made the right rehab choice does not have to be one of them. For attorneys and other high profile professionals, executive rehab is the way to go.

What an Attorney Needs from Rehab

attorney rehabRehab programs are plentifully available and come in many different forms. There are some that follow the teachings of a particular religion or spirituality, while others are totally secular. There are high end, luxury rehabs and low end, government funded rehabs. There are rehabs in urban settings and rehabs in rural settings. Needless to say, there is a rehab to suit every income bracket and way of life, which is why it is especially important for people to select their rehab program carefully. When an attorney is struggling with addiction and is ready to commit to rehab to fight for their recovery, it is particularly important that they choose their rehab program judicially.

Typically, the best environment for an attorney to undergo a rehab program in is executive rehab. Executive rehab is a type of rehabilitation program that caters toward high profile individuals and people in positions of power. This demographic is variable, but this type of program is useful for this type of person for logistical reasons. Executive rehab programs typically have a flexible schedule to accommodate the busy lifestyle of the working professional. They also allow exceptions to typical rehab rules, such as permission for clients to retain cell phones and access a business center.

Executive rehabs are recommended to attorneys who are struggling with addiction because it will offer rehab on an attorney’s level. The higher cost of attending ensures that only the best facilitators and counselors will come in contact with the attorney, giving them their money’s worth. The executive rehab experience also ensures the attorney’s comfort by providing them with the finest meals and food creations, private gyms, hot tubs, game rooms and the best quality home accouterments. There is no reason an attorney should give up their lifestyle in order to attend rehab. If you or someone you love is an attorney struggling with addiction, learn about executive rehab options today.

Attorneys and Lawyers Struggling with Addiction

attorney lawyer addictionThere are a number of professions that contain higher than average statistics for cases of addiction. When forced to guess, people often think that medical professionals and wealthy CEO’s are some of the most likely to struggle with addiction, but many people are not aware that attorneys and lawyers are prone to addiction problems. The reason for this is the high stress, high pressure nature of the profession, and the overwhelming expectations that are placed on attorneys. The fast paced, demanding professional life of an attorney is not suitable for everyone. Many commit to it without understanding their own limitations and crack under the pressure as a result. It is not uncommon for attorneys to experiment with drugs, alcohol or other addictive substances and behaviors.

Sex, drugs and alcohol are among the most common addictions that attorneys struggle with. These are addictions commonly found within fast paced professions. They create strong highs and total distraction from other areas of life, such as a stressful profession. When attorneys become addicted to drugs, they are commonly addicted to strong street drugs such as cocaine and ecstasy, or strong prescription medications such as Oxycontin. They dabble in abusing these substances as a means of self medication and become hooked. Likewise, an attorney who is an alcoholic is commonly addicted to hard alcohol for the strength of its affects. And an attorney who is addicted to sex often has an insatiable appetite for sex.

Being addicted and trying to remain professionally successful does not work well for most attorneys. Addiction is known to catch up with a person and ruin them, even if this occurs slowly and gradually. Often it is coworkers and professional peers who notice the addiction problems first because they are around the individual a great deal. Being addicted can quickly hurt an attorney’s professional reputation by damaging their credibility and dependability. Being addicted will also negatively impact an attorney’s personal and family life, as well as their health. An addicted attorney needs professional intervention and rehabilitation in order to regain their mental health and their life.

The Pressure on Attorneys

attorney pressureAttorneys are called to their profession for noble reasons. They have a passion and a drive for knowing the law inside and out to blow the whistle on those who would try to manipulate it. Being an attorney can be a very rewarding profession when cases are won and notoriety is gained. But there are other days in the professional life of an attorney that prove to be stressful, unpleasant and hard to cope with. Every attorney experiences the loss of a case at some point and must taste the grit of defeat. Expectations on attorneys are extremely high, and the amounting pressure can prove too much for some to bare.

Many clients of attorneys go into court with unrealistic expectations of what an attorney can do. Some who are guilty think that, because they have paid a substantial fee, they are guaranteed a win in their case, which is obviously irrational. Others make their attorney’s jobs harder by not taking their case seriously. They withhold information or veer off the agreed upon plan in court then become upset at their attorney when their own bad decisions hurt their case. These are challenges that an attorney cannot foresee, which makes their jobs more difficult. There are also frequently more senior attorneys observing the success rate of those below them, which creates additional pressure.

The combination of these difficulties can make the pressure on attorneys unbearable, which often results in them acting out. Many attorneys turn to drugs and alcohol to self medicate their stress symptoms, while others rely on some other form of escapism. It is only a minority of professional attorneys who cope with stress in a healthy way. Attorneys and lawyers have a higher than average suicide rate for any given profession, and the need to focus on mental health within this group of professionals has recently become a necessary conversation to have. If you or someone you care about is an attorney who is unable to cope with professional stress, consider the services of a counselor, rehab or support group today.