What is SUD?
There are lots of myths, misconceptions, and incorrect assumptions about problems with alcohol or other drugs. The truth is that these problems can vary in onset, duration and resolution. The most serious form is known as Substance Use Disorder (“SUD”). SUD 1) is a disease with characteristic signs and symptoms, 2) is similar to other chronic conditions (i.e., requires longer treatment to establish long-term lifestyle changes), and 3) follows a progressive course that, if left untreated, will only get worse.
A chart showing the general progression of the disease can be found here. Despite the level of severity, highly effective treatment is available.
Brain and Behavior
SUD is a disease that involves the brain. SUD creates changes in the brain that result in problems with:
- Decision making
- Judgment
- Emotional regulation
- Memory and recall (i.e., euphoric recall of alcohol or other drug use that overrides the memory of the negative consequences or promises made to self and others)
This is one of the main reasons that SUD is not defined or diagnosed by the amount and frequency of use of a substance, but by the thinking and behaviors exhibited. Lawyers suffering from alcohol and other drug problems are also more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety and to commit suicide.
Deceptive Symptoms
It may initially be difficult to identify that what we are experiencing is related to alcohol and other drug problems, because we may be distracted by events or consequences that seem unrelated (a failed marriage, loss of a job, kids who will not speak to us, financial problems, “friends” who keep taking advantage of us, a DWI, etc.). We may be focusing all our energy on trying to fix those circumstances. But those circumstances are really just symptoms of the underlying alcohol and other drug problem; they will only be “fixed” when the SUD is addressed and properly treated. It may be difficult to articulate something that we don’t yet fully understand ourselves. It may also be difficult to ask for help, but SUD will only get worse if left untreated.
Warning Signs and Symptoms
While signs and symptoms vary greatly depending on the substance and the severity of the abuse, the following is an overview of warning signs:
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Abandoning activities that were previously enjoyable, including those with family
- Can’t remember conversations or commitments
- Difficulty paying attention
- Sudden mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts, temper tantrums
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or control alcohol or other drug use
- Excessive need for privacy; unreachable
- Drop in performance at work, tardiness, frequent absences
- Bloodshot eyes, pupils larger or smaller than usual
- Changes in appetite, may include weight loss or weight gain
- Changes in sleep patterns, insomnia, hypersomnia, or fluctuates with both
- Deterioration of physical appearance, neglectful of personal grooming habits
- Feelings of guilt or shame following alcohol or other drug use
- Unusual smells on breath, body, or clothing
- Tremors, slurred speech, or impaired coordination
- Excessive sweating
- Puffy face, blushing, or paleness
- Financial problems or unexplained need for money
- Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors
- Unexplained change in personality or attitude
- Periods of unusual hyperactivity, giddiness, or excessive talkativeness
- Lack of motivation and energy, apathetic, appears lethargic or “spaced out”
- Appears fearful, anxious, nervous or paranoid, with no reason
- Dishonesty or evasiveness
Hard To Ask For Help
It is well established that lawyers (including judges) have three to four times the rate of alcohol and other drug problems as the general population. There are many contributing factors, including the often-unrelenting stress and emotional demands of the job. Unfortunately, the very qualities that can make us successful lawyers, such as being analytical, self-reliant, highly skeptical, perfectionistic, critical thinkers, and skilled negotiators/persuaders (i.e., manipulators), can also drastically impede our ability to admit that we have a problem with alcohol or other drugs. The need to be in control and an unwillingness to admit “defeat,” (i.e., that we have been unable to solve our problem by ourselves) greatly reinforce the denial already inherent with the disease, thus enabling the disease to progress.
Malpractice and Ethical Violations
And while most lawyers highly value the practice of law and take pride in providing excellent work for our clients, lawyers who suffer from alcohol and other drug problems are substantially more likely to fail their clients, commit malpractice, experience disciplinary action and face disbarment. Studies have documented that as many as 60 percent of all malpractice claims and trust account violations involve alcohol and other drug problems.
Disease is Not a Moral Issue
It is important to note that SUD is not a matter of will power, moral character, or strength versus weakness. It is a disease. However, unlike other diseases, it creates a pattern of deception and denial that separates those affected with the disease from the people who can help and support them. This separation, along with the lack of support and accountability, creates an environment of isolation which allows the disease to progress unimpeded.
Recovery Works
The good news is that people with SUD can and do recover. There are more than 23 million Americans in sustained recovery from an alcohol or other drug problem. There is hope and help available for individuals and their loved ones. The earlier we seek help, the better. Please call or email us today.
