It’s no secret that lawyers suffer from mental health issues and addiction at higher rates than the general public. But we’re a stubborn, self-reliant profession and we’re reluctant to get help when we need it.

Some of this reluctance may stem from the fear of stigma or even harm to one’s law license. But the November 2019 issue of Wisconsin Lawyer magazine sheds some light on this topic. Check out this message from State Bar President Jill Kastner, as well as this short article by Dean Dietrich. In sum, Wisconsin Lawyers Assistance Program is confidential, and not subject to the peer reporting requirements under SCR 20:8.3.

Fear of getting caught shouldn’t stand in the way of getting help.