the SOCIETY RECORD - Nova Scotia Barristers' Society

the
president’s
view
As I travel around the province to speak to lawyers about
the work of the Society, I have also discussed a serious
problem for lawyers by telling the story of my own struggle
with depression. I began with my speech at the Annual General
Meeting last June. I do this to highlight the challenges many of
us face in the practice of law and to offer a story of hope to those
who are struggling. Since I will not be able to speak to everyone
in my year as President, I thought it may be helpful if I put my
comments in this column.
Years ago, I fell into a deep depression that consumed my life
and practice. It lasted about three years and, like many in this
situation, I did not truly understand what was happening to
me. Unless you have experienced depression, it is impossible
to explain just how deep the well of despair is and the sense
of helplessness you feel. It can be paralyzing and yet invisible
others. I reached the point of planning suicide.
Finally my wife, along with my law partner, convinced me to see
my GP and I also contacted the Nova Scotia Lawyers Assistance
Program. After treatment consisting of medication and therapy
with a psychologist (who remains a dear friend), I was able to
recover and find what I had lost to this disease – happiness and
peace.
My story is not unique. Lawyers suffer depression 3.6 times
more frequently than any other profession. In one study, 25 per
cent of lawyers surveyed had symptoms of depression.
Lawyers commit suicide at a rate six times that of the general
population. It is the third leading cause of death among lawyers,
behind heart attack and cancer.
Lawyers between 48 and 65 are at greatest risk of depression and
suicide. Among those, sole practitioners are at the highest risk.
After all, they have few around them to help identify the problem
and to push them to seek help.
Not to be ignored is the fact that we have twice the rate of
alcoholism as compared to the general public, and ours is the
highest among all professions. Drug abuse rates are higher as
well.
But there is hope and a way out. The Lawyers Assistance Program
is a great way to start and was a key part of my recovery. It is free,
available 24 hours every day and is completely confidential. It will
provide help for the lawyer, his or her family and even staff, for
a whole range of problems. This help can include referrals and
payment for counselling. The LAP provides lifestyle coaching,
financial planning and many other services, all free. For those
suffering from depression, anxiety or any other form of mental
challenge, it can be a lifeline and a first step to a new life.
The program’s toll-free line is 1 866 299 1299; also see nslap.ca
for a number of online health and wellness resources.
Working with your GP and other care providers is also key.
Medication and therapy can work separately but are most
effective if used together. It can take awhile to get the balance
right. But don’t let pride, embarrassment or a perception of
stigma prevent you from seeking help. You can recover.
I encourage anyone who thinks they may be suffering from
depression, anxiety or any other issue to reach out for help. If
you know someone who may be facing such problems, say or
do something. Forget about any concern that the lawyer may not
receive the message well – the stakes are simply too high to do
nothing. I believe we owe each other that obligation as members
of this profession. I am proof that there is always a way forward
to recovery; you just need to ask.
Timothy G.J. Daley QC
President
Spring 2013 5