It’s Social Work Month! To all of my fellow social workers out there: I see you, I appreciate you, and I am happy to share this profession with you.
The theme for this year is ‘Social Workers Are Essential”. Over the last year, during this pandemic, it has been more evident that social workers are essential. We have all been hanging on by threads as we have served so many people while experiencing our own challenges. We have been addressing the needs of individuals, families, and the entire community as everyone has struggled with feelings of uncertainty and fear. If you are in private practice like myself, you have been overwhelmed with clients and having enough emotional and mental space to meet their needs.
As an African-American therapist, you may have experienced trauma from the pandemic in many ways, including dealing with systemic racism, the increased number of African-American/Black clients looking for African-American/Black therapists, and grief and loss as the African-American/Black community was disproportionately affected by COVID-19.
With everything we are all dealing with, let’s remember that we are not in this alone.
You might work remote, or see less of each other but we always stand in solidarity in support of each other. Let’s take care of each other, especially this month!
Here are a few ways to check in with each other and practice good self-care.
Check in
Reach out to another colleague, schedule time for virtual coffee, happy hour, etc.
Post a roll call on your social media handles and ask everyone to let you know how they are doing.
Pick up the phone and call a fellow social worker. Sometimes just hearing a familiar voice is nice.
Self-Care
Schedule downtime on your calendar (at least 30 minutes to an hour a few times a week).
Disconnect from ALL media for at least an afternoon; use that time to meditate, get outside or simply relax.
Watch a funny movie or comedy. Laughter is good for the soul.