Time to Thank a Social Worker

Take Time to Thank a Social Worker

March is National Social Work Month, and the National Association of Social Workers’ theme is “Social Workers Stand Up.” This is an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of the nearly 720,000 social workers in the U.S. The need for social work is greater than ever as our society continues to deal with entrenched problems and stress. The number of U.S. social workers is expected to grow by 12 percent by the end of the decade.

Oncology social workers deal with the stress created by a cancer diagnosis and have an expertise beyond the scope of most masters-degree prepared social workers.

They assist with a wide range of concerns including issues faced by patients at high risk of cancer, those newly diagnosed, in active treatment, or dealing with end-of-life issues.

Oncology social workers are knowledgeable about individual and family coping styles, resources, and clinical interventions; and they employ a myriad of other skills to help patients and families manage the multidimensional (emotional, financial, and physical) impact of a cancer diagnosis.

The key to success as an oncology social worker is the ability to be present, to engage open-heartedly with empathy and compassion, to start where the patient is, and to focus on hearing the needs of the individual.

As we join in marking National Social Work Month, please thank the social workers who are standing up to make your journey easier.

Written by:

Teri Sahn-Silver, LMSW, OSW-C, Shades of Pink Foundation board member