NEWS
Confronting Alcohol and Mental Health Challenges in the Legal Profession: A Call to Action
BY DAVID JAFFE ’93
The legal profession has a drinking problem. Whether we like to admit it or not, students are oſten socialized into a drinking culture in law school, if not before. As an associate law school dean, I observe firsthand the ongoing struggles of law students and professionals with mental health issues, oſten exacerbated by substance use.
Addressing the pervasive issue of alcohol consumption and its impact on mental health within the legal profession is paramount. Regardless of our roles as alumni, current students, or professionals, we must confront the reality that many individuals within the legal community struggle with these challenges.
Reflecting on our collective experiences, it is evident that the drinking culture oſten prevalent in law school can have lasting effects on mental well-being. Whether we are alumni looking back on our own journeys or current students navigating these pressures, it is crucial to recognize the importance of seeking support and addressing these issues head-on.
Teaming up with the David Nee Foundation at Bridgewater State University and the University of St. Thomas School of Law, I co-led a nationwide survey in 2021 focusing on the well-being of law students. This extensive study spanned 39 law schools and engaged more than 5,400 respondents. Shockingly,
16 THE ADVOCATE SUMMER/FALL 2024
the results revealed that 44% of law students admitted to consuming alcohol to the point of intoxication within the past month, while 18% had received a diagnosis of depression since entering law school.
AUWCL hosted Cocktail Party with a Twist! last fall for first-year students. The event aimed to raise awareness about well-being issues, specifically addressing drinking concerns within the legal profession. The event featured six stations where creative drinks, made with non-alcoholic spirits, were poured by faculty and staff mixologists. (Top photo) Congratulations to professors Christine Farley (fourth from leſt) and Angi Porter (second from leſt) on retaining the trophy!
However, the challenges persist beyond graduation. Studies funded by the ABA Commission on Lawyer Assistance Programs highlight the prevalence of problematic drinking and depression among licensed attorneys. Moreover, the correlation between mental health issues, substance use, and suicidal thoughts underscores the urgency of the issue.
As a diverse community of stakeholders within the legal profession, we must advocate for systemic change. This includes implementing comprehensive well-being initiatives in law schools and legal workplaces, fostering open dialogue about mental health, and challenging the stigma surrounding seeking help. At AUWCL, we hosted a unique cocktail
event drawing more than 275 students. Featuring alcohol-free drinks craſted by six faculty teams, attendees enjoyed tasting and judging each concoction without the worry of intoxication. The ambiance was vibrant, accompanied by live piano music and atmospheric lighting, creating a relaxed atmosphere free from alcohol pressure. To foster enduring change, well-being endeavors must be continuous, not isolated events. Deans can lead by integrating mental
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