Mental Health and Substance Use: Insights from Social Work ( Chapter 10 )
In the realm of social work, few areas are as intricate and demanding as the field of mental health and substance use. Social workers play a pivotal role in assisting individuals facing these challenges, offering them support, guidance, and resources on their path to recovery. In this blog, we will explore key insights drawn from discussions in this critical subject matter.(Bogucki, MSW, n.d.)
In the remote Alaskan village of Shungnak, where I serve as a 1st-year Behavioral Health Aide, we frequently encounter individuals grappling with mood and mental health challenges. These challenges often bear a resemblance to the bipolar and depressive disorders discussed in the text. However, it is essential to understand how these issues relate to our unique circumstances in the harsh Arctic environment.
As I delved into this chapter, I envisioned the close-knit community of Shungnak, surrounded by the vast snowy landscapes of the Northwest Arctic. Our village’s isolation poses challenges, leading me to question how the content would resonate with our situation. Nevertheless, I aimed to uncover insights to support our community, where mental health issues and substance use concerns are deeply intertwined with the challenging Arctic conditions.
One significant takeaway from this subject matter is the importance of language. The terminology we use matters, and stigmatizing terms can harm individuals seeking help. Embracing person-centered language, such as “substance use disorder” rather than “addict,” can help reduce the stigma associated with these conditions. This shift in language allows clients to view their challenges as manageable aspects of their lives rather than defining characteristics.(Bogucki, MSW, n.d.)
Understanding substance use disorders is fundamental in this field. The subject matter provides valuable insights into various types of substance use disorders, including alcohol use disorder, cannabis use disorder, and opioid use disorder. It outlines the criteria for diagnosing these disorders and emphasizes their prevalence in the United States. This knowledge is crucial for social workers to identify and provide appropriate support to individuals battling substance use disorders.
The subject matter also delves into different treatment settings, highlighting the differences between inpatient and outpatient facilities. Inpatient clinics offer intensive treatment and support, while outpatient settings provide flexibility for clients. Social workers must understand these options to guide individuals toward the most suitable treatment path. Additionally, it raises questions about treatment philosophies, debating the effectiveness of abstinence-only programs versus harm-reduction approaches. This opens up a crucial dialogue about the best strategies to support individuals on their journey to recovery.(Bogucki, MSW, n.d.)
The opioid epidemic is a pressing concern, and social workers play a central role in addressing this crisis. The subject matter discusses the shift from prescription opioids to heroin due to cost considerations, leading to increased risks. It also sheds light on government initiatives aimed at combating the epidemic. Social workers are pivotal in supporting clients affected by this crisis and connecting them with appropriate resources.(Bogucki, MSW, n.d.)
This chapter prompts a reconsideration of the essence of social work. It underscores that social work is not merely a profession; it’s a way of life. It demands adaptability, empathy, and the courage to confront intricate challenges. This perspective profoundly resonates with our work in Shungnak, where we frequently encounter unique challenges stemming from our Arctic environment and the tight-knit fabric of our community.(Bogucki, MSW, n.d.)
The case study of Jessica draws parallels with our experiences in Shungnak. Her struggles with feelings of worthlessness, concentration difficulties at work, and emotional withdrawal mirror scenarios we often encounter. While we may not offer diagnoses, recognizing these symptoms enables us to connect individuals with the appropriate resources for evaluation and support.
In our training, we emphasize cultural sensitivity and the importance of tailoring assistance to align with the unique needs of our Arctic community. This chapter seamlessly aligns with these principles, highlighting the significance of language that respects individuals. It also addresses strategies for aiding individuals who resort to substance use as a coping mechanism in our challenging environment.
Addressing trauma disorders, especially Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), takes on heightened importance in our village, given the potential for traumatic events. Traumatic events in our community can encompass shootings, assaults, or instances of sexual violence. This chapter emphasizes the need to discern and address these stress responses to deliver appropriate care. Acute Stress Disorder is another facet that warrants our consideration, as it can evolve into PTSD if left unattended.(Bogucki, MSW, n.d.)
In the world of social work, clients with dual diagnoses, meaning they have both a mental disorder and a substance use disorder, are not uncommon. These cases present unique challenges, and social workers must be equipped to assess and address these co-occurring conditions comprehensively.
In conclusion, the subject matter of mental health and substance use within the context of social work is both intricate and crucial. Social workers must stay informed about changing perceptions, reduce stigma through person-centered language, and understand the prevalence and criteria of substance use disorders. Additionally, we must navigate treatment settings, address the opioid epidemic, consider various treatment philosophies, and adapt to serve diverse communities. With these insights, social workers can better support their clients and make a meaningful impact on their journey to recovery.
References:
Bogucki, MSW, K. (n.d.). INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL WORK AT FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY: Chapter 10 Mental health and substance abuse. https://pressbooks.pub/ferrisintroductiontosocialwork/chapter/chapter-10-mental-health-and-substance-use/