Subscriber Benefit
As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe Now
By Patty McKinnon, McKinnon Family Law P.C.
On Sept. 20, the Indy Bar HEAL Committee (Helping Enrich Attorneys Lives) and JLAP (Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program) co-sponsored a unique, free seminar, “Depression and Lawyers: Real Stories.” A recording of the program is available now for online viewing at the indybar.org in the On Demand catalog.
You are not alone if you are struggling with depression or know an attorney who is. In 2021, over 21 million people experienced depression. Women lawyers experience depression at a rate of 50% higher than men. Younger lawyers are experiencing an even higher rate of diagnosed depression than senior lawyers.
The demands of the legal profession are real — deadlines, court dates and hearings, to name a few — and can lead to anxiety, stress and depression. Research shows that 46% of attorneys experience depression at some point in their career. Factors that can contribute to depression include a persistent high level of stress, a pessimistic outlook developed through law school and practice, long hours and a low tolerance for failure.
Not sure if it’s depression or something else? The seminar participants learned about the warning signs of depression, including feeling restless or on edge, becoming withdrawn or detached; isolating from family and friends; or increased use of alcohol or drugs. Early warning signs can include loss of interest in hobbies or activities, feeling sad or hopeless, and difficulty concentrating or making decisions. Untreated depression can result in an inability to meet the responsibilities of work or family. For some attorneys, you just can’t return phone calls or open those emails.
There is hope. There is help available.
Seminar attendees learned real-life tips on coping with depression from attorneys who have experienced depression including Reid Murtaugh, Steve Terrell and Patty McKinnon. One tip from Murtaugh was to question someone who you think is depressed regarding whether that person has plans to commit suicide or intends to harm himself or herself. “Asking about suicidal thoughts does not cause that person to commit suicide.” The worst thing you can do is ignore someone who you suspect is suffering from depression because you’re afraid to say the wrong thing. Terrell spoke of a moment that finally caused him to reach out to get help, which was when a fellow attorney and long-time friend,committed suicide. He urged attorneys not wait to see help. McKinnon suggested you ask someone who you suspect is suffering from depression, “How can I support you?” It’s important that anyone struggling with depression knows they are not alone.
Think you or someone you know might need help with depression? Recognize the warning signs and share your concerns. Respond with empathy, and support — not “fixing.” You can reach out to JLAP at 317-833-0370, or 1-866-428-JLAP (5527) on behalf of yourself or another attorney, judge or law student. Every call is confidential. JLAP’s staff includes professionals with clinical training and those who have lived with anxiety and depression. They provide individual and group support as well as referrals to other professionals and resources including free remote support groups for attorneys and judges.
Murtaugh is also involved with a national project to assist lawyers with depression: www.lawyersdepressionproject.org.
Other resources include NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), which offers a free peer-led education class for adults who are living with someone with mental illness. nami.org/Support-Education/NAMI-Programs/NAMI-Family-Friends
Depression is a common, treatable medical illness. It affects how an attorney feels, thinks or acts. It is not a character flaw or a sign of weakness. When lawyers don’t care for their mental well-being, we can’t do our best for our clients and we can’t be the person we want to be for our community and family. Are you or someone you know feeling stressed or overwhelmed? Caregiving or grieving? Don’t wait. Help and support are available now. If you or
someone you know is feeling suicidal,
call 988.•
Patty McKinnon of McKinnon Family Law P.C. is a long-time volunteer with the Indiana Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program.
Please enable JavaScript to view this content.