Social Work: Continuing Education in the Field of Mental Health

Jun 28
09:27

2011

Andrew Stratton

Andrew Stratton

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Why consider continuing education in social work? There are people who view each day as a new and exciting adventure and then there are those individuals who see the world as a daily challenge to be faced and endured.

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The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that social work is one of the fastest growing fields and is expected to continue to rise by as much as 30% over the next decade. Continuing education in social work is a decision that is both admirable and one that will provide numerous opportunities to those individuals with an interest in the field of mental health. When pursuing a BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) or a MSW (Master of Social Work) degree,Social Work: Continuing Education in the Field of Mental Health Articles once the decision is made of continuing education in social work it might be wise to focus on a particular branch of study.

Social work can include assisting people in several areas of study: the aging population: this is one of the largest growing demographics, with people living longer than ever before in history. Military personnel: soldiers returning home from war, either attempting to readjust to civilian life or dealing with an injury, whether it be physical or emotional. Workforce: long term unemployment, assisting those seeking new jobs or dealing with the loss of a job, or those attempting to transition into a new work environment. Poverty: many individuals are trying to adjust to a loss of income, loss of their home to foreclosure, downsizing, slipping from a high income bracket to a lower one, loss of retirement, 401k, pension and stocks plummeting in value. Abuse: child abuse, domestic abuse, elder abuse / substance abuse and addiction. Terminal illness: assisting a patient and their loved ones with coping through an illness, and helping them to prepare for death. The fields are vast and varying when it comes to social work.

Prisons, police forces, schools and hospitals also employ social workers. Continuing education in social work can be required dependent upon which position an individual wishes to fill. Studies in psychology, sociology, clinical work and education; some organizations may require some, or all of these courses. And each state requires a social worker be licensed in the state they plan to practice in.

Continuing education in social work can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. With a need for social workers growing, many individuals are making the decision to return to school and complete their education in the mental health field. Several universities are aware of the difficulty for students to continue their studies toward a degree due to work schedules and other commitments, so they now offer courses online via Skype or webcam, enabling students to receive their degree on a schedule that conforms to their lifestyle.

Hospitals, schools, community centers, prisons, senior centers, retirement homes and clinics; all are in need of social workers. Police stations, trauma centers and military bases are all seeing the need for people trained in mental health. Continuing education in social work is a decision that will benefit both the provider and patient, making this world a little bit better one person at a time.