| Depression is not simply feeling blue, depression is a constellation of symptoms often including loss of interest, pleasure, motivation, hope, and energy, and can further manifest in irritability, problems with concentration or memory, and social withdrawal.
It is one of the most common causes of behavior leading to disciplinary complaints, in that it often leads to neglect of cases, errors because of impaired concentration, loss of sleep, apathy, etc. Depression often runs in families genetically, but is also commonly a response to circumstances such as a personal loss, or feeling trapped or helpless. The good news is that depression is highly treatable, with either psychotherapy/counseling or medications or both. The bad news is that left untreated, depression will only get worse and can lead to other serious health problems.
Some symptoms of depression are: -
Inability to meet professional or personal obligations. -
Emotional paralysis-unable to open mail or answer telephone calls. -
Persistent sadness or apathy, cring, anxiety, or "empty feelings". |
- Changes in sexual energy or desire.
- Changes in sleep, marked increases or decreases in time spent sleeping.
- Trouble concentrating or remembering.
- Guilt, feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness or low self-esteem.
- Feelings of confusion, loneliness, isolation, desolation and being overwhelmed.
- Thoughts of suicide.
Colleagues, family members and friends play an important role in the recognition of depressive symptoms and in helping those in need to get treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression or know a judge, lawyer, law student, or any other member of the legal community who is in need of help, call LHL for a confidential consultation.
HELP IS AVAILABLE. Contact LHL at 579-0404 or 1 (800) 530-3743.
CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION ON ULHL SUPPORT GROUP
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