Former president of the American Association of Social Workers

Is our function as social workers limited to the treatment of pathologies, or do we have a positive or preventive function to perform as well? This question was posed in light of a growing public concern about the increasing number of people with mental health issues at that time. In response to this query, it can be argued that not only does social work provide help for those dealing with mental health issues but also it serves an important role in preventing such conditions from developing. To begin with, one must recognize that there are systemic barriers which predispose certain populations towards having greater risk factors for developing mental health problems; these include poverty and lack access to resources needed for basic needs such as food and housing. As such, social workers play an important role in helping these individuals gain access to necessary services while simultaneously advocating for policy changes geared towards alleviating some of these systemic disparities. Moreover, many social workers serve an integral part by providing counseling services aimed at helping clients identify potential sources of stressors in their lives and implementing coping strategies so they can better cope with them. Additionally, many offer support services targeted at helping those affected by trauma which may have been caused by violence or abuse thus preventing further escalation into more serious psychological illnesses if left untreated. Furthermore, through education programs offered within schools and communities, professionals seek to raise awareness about topics related to mental health such as anxiety disorders and depression; this will not only help reduce stigma around seeking help but also encourage early detection if someone begins exhibiting signs associated with any form of distress thus receiving intervention before things get worse. Overall, while providing therapeutic services is a core component within the field of social work it cannot be denied that there is great significance attached when taking measures determined at preventing the onset of pathology among vulnerable populations who may otherwise fall victim due lack resources or knowledge around gaining access suitable supports if needed. Thus Youngdahl's words still carry much relevance today given how far society has come since then yet how much still remains unchanged whereby pathways exist leading someone down paths which can potentially lead them away from hope towards despair unless attention is paid beforehand towards steering them away from dangerously rocky shores hidden beneath seemingly calm waters .

Sample Solution

    Social work is a profession that focuses on providing assistance to individuals, families, and groups in order to create positive social change. In his 1953 farewell address as former president of the American Association of Social Workers (now the National Association of Social Workers or NASW), Benjamin Youngdahl posed an important question