DUI AND YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

By Jonathan Blecher on April 18, 2023

A DUI conviction can have a significant impact on your mental health. The stress of dealing with the legal consequences, the financial burden, and the social stigma can all lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and shame.

If you are struggling with your mental health after a DUI arrest, it is important to seek help. There are many resources available to you, including therapy, medication, and support groups. I approach each case holistically, meaning I work with my clients on a legal and personal level to achieve the best result for them now and for the long term.

Here are some tips for coping with the mental health effects of a DUI arrest or conviction:

Acknowledge your feelings. It is important to allow yourself to feel the emotions you are experiencing, such as anger, sadness, and guilt. Bottling up your emotions will only make them worse.
Talk to someone you trust. Talking to a friend, family member, therapist, or support group can help you process your emotions and feel less alone.
Seek professional help. If you are struggling to cope with your mental health, a therapist can help you develop coping mechanisms and strategies for managing your emotions.
Take care of yourself. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and exercise regularly. These activities can help improve your mood and reduce stress.
Be patient with yourself. Recovery from a DUI conviction takes time. Don’t expect to feel better overnight. Be patient with yourself and give yourself time to heal.

If you are struggling with your mental health after a DUI arrest or conviction, please know that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you. Reach out for help and start your journey to recovery today.

Here are some mental health sources for people who have been arrested for DUI:

  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): NAMI is a national organization that provides support and advocacy for people with mental illness. They have a helpline that can be reached at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
  • National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): NIMH is a federal agency that conducts and supports research on mental health. They have a website with information on mental health conditions, treatment, and resources.
  • National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD): NCADD is a national organization that provides information and resources on alcohol and drug addiction. They have a helpline that can be reached at 1-800-622-2255.
  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): SAMHSA is a federal agency that provides information and resources on mental health and substance abuse. They have a helpline that can be reached at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
  • MentalHealth.gov: MentalHealth.gov is a website of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that provides information and resources on mental health.

In addition to these national resources, there are many local and regional organizations that provide mental health support. A good place to start looking for local resources is your county or city health department. You can also ask your doctor or therapist for recommendations.

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