The State Bar of Georgia's suicide awareness campaign has a dual purpose, directed toward lawyers and judges who are suffering from anxiety and depression and may be at risk for suicide, as well as all Bar members, who need to recognize the severity of the problem and be able to identify warning signs among our colleagues. If you are thinking about suicide or are worried a friend may be contemplating suicide, immediate action is critical. Call the confidential LAP Hotline 1-800-327-9631.
"I believe that the State Bar has an obligation to use its resources to try to save a member’s life," said 2012-13 State Bar President Robin Frazer Clark. "And I believe we as members of this honorable profession have an obligation to help a friend, partner, colleague or office mate get the help they need if we suspect they may be considering taking their own life." The videos below contain more information and resources regarding suicide awareness.
The Dave Nee Foundation, based in New York and created in the wake of the 2005 suicide of Fordham University law student Dave Nee, lists these 12 signs you might notice in yourself or a friend that may give cause for concern and at least point to a need to talk with someone:
Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, depressed mood, poor self-esteem or guilt
Withdrawal from friends, family and activities that used to be fun
If you are dealing with one or more of these issues or know someone who is, please take advantage of the State Bar's confidential Lawyer Assistance Program hotline at 800-327-9631. Staffed by trained counselors 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the hotline is for lawyers and judges who have personal problems that are causing significant concerns. LAP also offers up to six prepaid in-person counseling sessions with a licensed counselor per year. To help meet the needs of its members and ensure confidentiality, the Bar contracts the services of CorpCare Associates Inc. Employee Assistance Program, a Georgia-headquartered national counseling agency.
The Suicide Awareness Campaign videos were made possible by funding from the State Bar of Georgia's Cornerstones of Freedom® program.