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From High-Functioning to Non-Functioning: Addressing Mental Health and Substance Misuse in the Legal Profession

SKU: SA3500
Substance Abuse
1
Self-Report
Price$50
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Description

“Maybe I drink more than I should, but it isn’t affecting my life—I’m ‘high-functioning.’”. “I’m fine. I just have a lot on my mind, but it’s nothing I can’t handle on my own.”

Sound familiar? Many professionals have heard—or said—something similar. Whether the underlying issue involves substance use, mental health challenges, trauma, or other stress-related factors, people often delay seeking help if they are still able to maintain their personal and professional responsibilities.

Although “high-functioning” is not an official medical diagnosis, the term is widely used to describe individuals who continue to perform at a high level despite struggling with mental health or substance use issues. This ability to keep up appearances can become a significant barrier to recognizing problems and pursuing treatment. Within the legal profession—where high expectations, long hours, and chronic stress are common—these patterns can be particularly pronounced.

Recent studies highlight a troubling trend: impairment related to alcohol use, addiction, and mental health disorders is increasing among attorneys. Research suggests that approximately one in three lawyers will experience a need for substance use or mental health support at some point during their careers.

This CLE program will explore the concept of “high-functioning” impairment in the legal profession, examine the warning signs that often go unnoticed, and discuss practical steps attorneys can take to recognize concerns, reduce stigma, and access appropriate resources before problems escalate.

Lecturer Bio

Brian S. Quinn, Esq.

Brian S. Quinn, Esquire is a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania who currently serves as the Education and Outreach Coordinator for Lawyers concerned for Lawyers of Pennsylvania, Inc., a Lawyers Assistance program established in 1988 for the purpose of helping lawyers, judges and law students recover from alcoholism, drug addiction and mental health disorders.

Mr. Quinn obtained his undergraduate degree in 1970, his law degree in 1973 and a certificate in Drug and Alcohol counselling in 2012, all from Villanova University. Prior to accepting his position with Lawyers concerned for Lawyers in 2017, Mr. Quinn was engaged in private practice for nearly 40 years, handling a variety of civil and criminal matters.

Mr. Quinn has also worked in the field of Alcohol and Drug Counselling at Mirmont Treatment Center and Malvern Institute in suburban Philadelphia.

Mr. Quinn is a past member of the Board of Directors of Lawyers concerned for Lawyers of Pennsylvania and served as a peer volunteer for over six years prior to accepting his current role as the organization's Educator.

As LCL's Educator, Mr. Quinn has conducted CLE presentations for Bar Associations, private law firms and professional organizations in Pennsylvania, as well as for National CLE providers, on a variety of topics in the fields of Lawyer wellness and impairment in the legal profession.

The National Academy of Continuing Legal Education is a Florida Bar Accredited CLE Sponsor (Sponsor # 0185716). To view our full accreditation details, please click here.


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