Student independent study: "The Mental Illness and Substance Abuse Among Attorneys"

Mackenzie Gilpin, B.A. Legal Studies 2018, completed a semester-long independent study with Prof. Ryan Fortson with a a Powerpoint presentation on her work this week. In addition to Prof. Fortson, Gilpin received editorial support from Prof. Kristin Knudsen, Legal Studies Coordinator.

Left to right: Mackenzie Gilpin, Prof. Ryan Fortson,
 and Mark Turberville following independent study presentations

Gilpin's paper, "The Mental Health and Substance Abuse Among Attorneys," investigates the relatively high prevalence of mental health issues and substance abuse among attorneys as compared to the general population, possible causes, and suggestions for improvement. She draws upon multiple studies, including one conducted by Patrick Krill in 2016.

Gilpin reports a correlation between the stress levels experienced during law school and during the practice of law that contribute to the likelihood of attorneys developing mental health issues and substance abuse disorders. Heavy course loads, competition, and lack of feedback from professors, she writes, are some of the reasons for stress in law school. Dissatisfaction with the practice of law, case overloads, and pressure to specialize are reasons Gilpin cites for stress among practicing attorneys.

Mckenzie Gilpin presents on her independent study regarding
mental illness and substance abuse among attorneys.

Lawyers with substance abuse problems are more likely to be involved in disciplinary proceedings that those without substance abuse problems. The American Bar Association has estimated that 50-60% of all disciplinary cases involved substance abuse, according to Gilpin.

After presenting the problem, Gilpin discusses different avenues open to attorneys for addressing the issue. These include seeking treatment and participating in lawyer assistance programs, as well as promoting law firm policies that encourage treatment without endangering job status. Gilpin also suggests that creating a less stressful environment in law school and better communication between students and professors could also reduce the incidence of mental health and substance use disorders among attorneys.

Reference

• "The Mental Health and Substance Abuse among Attorneys" (slide presentation) by Mackenzie Gilpin. Legal Studies independent study presentation, University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage, 2 May 2018.