National Social Work Month
Do you know who the largest group of mental health care providers in the United States are? Social workers! And it just so happens that March is National Social Work Month. The theme for this year’s celebration is “the time is right for social work.”
There are nearly 720,000 social workers in the United States, with that number expected to grow by 12 percent by the end of the decade. This makes social work one of the fastest growing professions in the nation. Social workers are much-needed as Americans are dealing with current crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, discrimination, historic trauma, substance abuse and cultural disparities.
Multitaskers
Social workers focus on helping others to tackle tough life challenges. They contribute to interdisciplinary care teams in schools, hospitals, mental health centers, nonprofits, corporations, the military; and in local, state, and federal government. Many social work professionals also own private consultation practices. Why, even in Indian Country, where social workers have long been viewed with suspicion and distrust, more Tribal members are taking up the mantle and making inroads into the field by themselves becoming social workers in order to bring positive change to their communities.
There to Help
There are many instances where individuals and families could use a helping hand. School social workers help find financial resources so students can fully participate in activities. Social workers help families to build better relationships when faced with challenges. They also help individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, or substance-use disorders. A social worker is there to give individuals strategies, resources and guidance to manage a wide range of mental health needs, including addiction.
So take a minute this National Social Work month to offer some appreciation, or maybe a word of encouragement to some of the hardest working professionals in America!
