Messages about COVID-19 seem almost as prevalent as the virus itself. They are bombarding us through all forms of media as well as in conversations with family and friends. In such stressful times, it is that much easier for stress, fear and negative thinking to take over. Whether you are afraid of the virus itself or simply of being exposed and then quarantined, the isolation these circumstances create can have a dramatic effect on one's well-being. This can easily spiral into alcoholism, addiction and a wide variety of mental health disorders. Those in the legal profession are just as susceptible as anyone else with statistics indicating that 1 out of 3 attorneys will resort to substance use or require mental health services at some point in their careers.

This CLE course will address this issue and its impact including the prevalence of impairment in the legal profession, early warning signs in office and private settings, causes and symptoms of depression and anxiety, the impact of COVID-19 on mental health and isolation, ethical issues and coping strategies. The course will also explain why the legal profession is a particularly at-risk group and the challenges they face in seeking help.