For lawyers, giving professional advice is easy—seeking it is not! It really is all about self-care. In other words, each one of us must take the time to look after ourselves. John Hoyles
There are many potential dangers spots for professionals. Because of the nature of practice, lawyers are at risk for health related and addictive behaviours. An addictive behaviour that can be a problem for lawyers is compulsive gambling. Problem (compulsive) gambling is considered a “process” addiction not a substance abuse problem. Why is problem gambling a potential risk for lawyers? The nature of gambling is such that it can be done in isolation, no one need know of the activity. Lawyers also may have access to large sums of money. Gambling provides a form of escape from pressures and appeals to people of above average intellect (the challenge of beating the odds).
The opportunities to gamble have increased dramatically in the last 15 years. Do you remember when it was not legal to gamble in Ontario? Video gambling, sports lotteries, casinos, internet sites and race track gambling are just some of the options now available. Compulsive gamblers seek immediate gratification, are occupied with the next opportunity to gamble (and win). The losses can also be immediate—financial ruin.
If you or a colleague runs into a problem (with gambling or any other issue) remember that self-care is important. The following “Road Map to Self Care” will encourage you get some help. The following suggestions for seeking help were presented by John Hoyles, CBA Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer at the CBA annual conference in 2002.
- Acknowledge that you can’t solve all problems yourself.
- Decide and accept that you do not need to be and should not be a “super person” (No weaknesses, no need for any help from anybody)
- Accept that obtaining advice form a professional is a good thing.
- Seek out people you trust to choose and arrange professional advice
- Make arrangements for the advice and build a wall around that time (so it cannot be touched by anyone or anything)
- Give it time (there are no instant solutions)
- Enjoy working with the professional and especially enjoy the self-care time you are taking in seeking advice
- Commit yourself to self-care and make it your number one priority. You, your family, your friends and your clients will all benefit.
A rapidly growing area of addictive behaviour is gambling—especially internet gambling such as stock options. Be aware and don’t take chances!
For more information on gambling: Canadian Foundation on Compulsive Gambling
Tel 1 888 391-111 or www.responsiblegambling.org
Confidential help and information is available for lawyers and their families.
Ontario Lawyers' Assistance Program lawyers helping lawyers www.olap.ca
Leota Embleton, Program Manager 416 241-799983
John G Starzynski, Volunteer Executive Director 1 877-6227
LINK Lawyers Assistance Program English: 1 866 261-6704 French: 1 866 261-6718 |
