Life in today’s world can be tumultuous, particularly with the recent change in the economic structure of our lives. Even in the best of times we all experience fluctuations in our moods.  Sadness is a normal reaction to life’s losses, stressors, and struggles.

Depression, a condition that is different than sadness can manifest itself in our lives in many different ways. It can disrupt sleep and appetite. There may be an inability to focus or concentrate on material that is vital to a person’s occupation or personal life. There may be feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness that pervade one’s entire existence.

With the intensity of these emotional states there is little wonder that people describe themselves as apathetic, devoid of happiness, satisfaction or even the perceived ability to change. Life is not only empty, it is experienced as living in “black hole” where activities and relationships that were once and satisfying are now boring and lifeless.

Lawyers are at increased risk for depression. Recent studies indicate that lawyers suffer depression at a rate twice that of other occupations. If you or someone you know is experiencing depression please reach out, get help.

The Member Assistance Program of the State Bar of Arizona can help. For confidential response and referral please call Hal Nevitt at 602-340-7334 or 602-885-4533.

The State Bar of Arizona Member Assistance Program website includes several resources on depression: info on signs, symptoms, and how to mitigate/treat depression, a depression & mania self-test, and an article on dealing with depression.

“[N]ot all lawyers can cope after being suspended or disbarred from practice.

“A lot of them get very angry and upset, and some of them descend into addiction — and sometimes never get out of it,” explained John Starzynski, who serves as the volunteer executive director of the Ontario Lawyers’ Assistance Program (OLAP).

Starzynski said the addictions cover the gamut, from alcohol and drugs (particularly cocaine) to occasionally sex and often gambling. The latest — and fastest growing addiction that Starzynski sees through OLAP — is to the Internet.”

The article also tells the personal stories of Starzynski (Ontario Lawyers’ Assistance Program), and Keith Anderson, a Nova Scotia lawyer who at one time faced debilitating depression.

An informative article – well worth the read.

Gwilliam was a successful trial lawyer in 1977, when he experienced a particularly devastating loss in court and turned to alcohol. The book, which was a USA Book News Best Book finalist, chronicles his recovery from alcoholism and his transformation into mentor, a leader, well-respected attorney and motivational speaker. Gwilliam credits lessons he learned from losing for his ultimate success in work and life. Among other honours, the Public Justice Foundation presented Gwilliam its Champion of Justice Award for 2009.

To learn more  about Gary Gwilliam, visit his firm bio or personal website and blog, and for more on Gary’s struggle with alcohol abuse, see this article from Plaintiff Magazine, Trials and Tribulations: A Profile of Oakland Trial Lawyer J. Gary Gwilliam.

Integrated Evaluation complements Survivors Week, a workshop The Meadows has been running for more than 20 years. For more information on The Meadows and its new program, call 1-800-632-3697.