Stepping into the Wilderness: A Field Guide for New Social Workers

AbstractThe current cohort of social work students  in the United States face a unique challenge. They are preparing to enter the workforce to face a society reeling from gun violence, mental health crises, racialized police brutality, significant job loss, unattainable housing, and an ongoing opioid epidemic, to name a few. The COVID-19 pandemic h as left society with heightened mental health concerns. The demand for social workers is projected to grow by 9% over the next ten years. However, three-fourths of social workers experience burnout during their careers. Preparing new social workers for potential workplace challenges that impede heal thy and sustainable employment is essential. The aim of this manuscript, in the form of a field guide, is to share the extant literature about the social work labor market; toxic workplace environments, job burnout, and vicarious trauma; practical ways to assess and reflect on your current reality; and how to best advocate for a healthy and vibrant social work career. Educators and supervisors may use this manuscript to engage soon-to-be or recent MSW graduates in discussions such as how they can identify unhealthy work environments, symptoms of vicarious trauma, and salary negotiation methods , all while providing tips for how to adapt and adjust to your surroundings in order to prioritize a healthy workplace as a form of self-care.
Source: Clinical Social Work Journal - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Source Type: research