In March, we celebrate the profession of social work and all who are called to serve. Social workers wear many different hats and can work in a variety of fields. Simply stated: social workers help improve the lives of others.
What is Social Work?
The foundation of social work is to help others. Whether working in outreach programs, schools, advocating for social justice, or providing care in mental health and substance abuse treatment settings, social workers dedicate their careers to making a difference.
Social workers undergo years of education and training to support individuals, families, and communities in reaching their full potential. Many serve as a voice for those who may not have one.
Social workers are present throughout our community, serving in hospitals, mental health clinics, schools, and even Congress. Their profession is built on compassion and a commitment to helping others in meaningful ways. In the United States, social workers make up one of the largest groups providing mental health care.
What Can a Social Worker in a Mental Health Setting Do?
Social workers empower individuals to take control of their lives by providing support in various ways, including:
- Developing coping skills
- Improving communication
- Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries
- Navigating relationship or family challenges
- Fostering personal growth
Additionally, social workers educate individuals on medication management, connect them to vital resources, and promote a deeper understanding of mental health diagnoses.
In mental health settings, social workers often provide individual, family, or group therapy. They play a crucial role in crisis intervention and can also serve as compassionate listeners.
As a social worker in the mental health field, one piece of advice I always offer is this:
Prioritize both your physical and mental well-being. Our loved ones need us to be okay, and at the end of the day, we are all striving for that same goal—just to be okay.
How has a social worker impacted your life?
What are you doing for yourself to make sure you are okay?
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Lake Area Psychiatry – Supporting Mental Wellness Since 2002