Mighty MERP ⚖️ In this episode, Melissa Rosenblum welcomes Dr. Defne Ekin and attorney Evan Levow to discuss the importance of lawyer wellness, the New Jersey Lawyers Assistance Program, and the personal journeys of both guests.
They explore the stigma surrounding addiction in the legal profession, the significance of specialization in law, and the evolving landscape of mental health support for lawyers.
Evan shares his personal story of struggle and recovery, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and the confidentiality offered by NJ Lawyers Assistance Program.
The conversation highlights the need for open discussions about mental health and addiction within the legal community, encouraging lawyers to prioritize their well-being.
takeaways
• Specialization in law can lead to greater expertise.
• The New Jersey Lawyers Assistance Program offers vital support for lawyers.
• Addiction is often misunderstood as a moral failing.
• Confidentiality is crucial for those seeking help.
• Ambivalence is a common experience in addiction recovery.
• Lawyers face unique stressors that can impact their mental health.
• It's important to have open conversations about wellness in the legal profession.
• Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
• The stigma around addiction can prevent professionals from seeking help.
• Law school can be a challenging environment for mental health.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to DWI Law and Specialization
01:19 Exploring Lawyer Wellness and Support Systems
02:12 Origin Stories: Defne Ekin's Journey
13:29 Evan Levow's Path to DWI Law
20:43 The Importance of Specialization in Law
23:09 Understanding the New Jersey Lawyers Assistance Program
30:05 The Stigma of Addiction in the Legal Profession
34:27 Evan's Personal Story of Struggle and Recovery
45:27 Confidentiality and Support in NJ LAP
53:15 The Evolving Landscape of Lawyer Wellness
01:07:02 Final Thoughts on Law School and Career Satisfaction
