What must law firms do?
Law firms do not have to wait for signs of depression to appear before acting to manage the risks and possibly prevent very serious consequences. There are highly-effective low-cost strategies that should be part of a law firms response to economic recession and its business impacts. Provide education about the prevention and treatment of depression. People need to know that they cant diagnose themselves. Help others to recognize the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Early detection of depression, when combined with adequate treatment, can prevent depression from worsening and, in some cases, can prevent long-term disability or worse. Increase awareness about problem drinking and drug use and the link between substance abuse and depression. Educate staff and lawyers about suicide and its indicators. Do not exclude support staff from this effort. Sometimes a staff member who works closely with a lawyer might notice indicators that are overlooked by other lawyers. Impress everyone that
