5 Great Websites to Inspire Social Workers

From handling troubled youths to rehabilitating those with substance abuse issues, social workers provide the necessary support for society’s most vulnerable people. However, with this much responsibility, social workers need to find ways to keep themselves inspired. In fact, social work has one of the highest burnout rates of any profession. Fortunately, social workers can stay motivated and informed with the five following websites.

1. The National Association of Social Workers

The NASW is the leading organization for social workers around the world. Because of this, the NASW has a large selection of online resources for members and other interested parties. Some of the information includes professional publications, ongoing educational opportunities and industry news. Add all this to the information about advocacy and media releases, and this website is a great starting point for anyone interested in social work.

2. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Backed by the United States government, this website has authoritative and comprehensive information about the social services available throughout the country. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is designed to provide necessary programs for those in need, many of which are staffed by social workers. This website offers in depth information about the programs and their eligibility requirements in addition to information about the relevant laws. There are even helpful links to grants and contracts, which can be an important way to leverage a career forward and make social changes.

3. The National Registry of Evidence-Based Programs and Practices

Operated by SAMHSA, the NREPP is an important tool for determining the best practices in the industry. There are always new options for treatment and support, which can make it hard to know what really works in the field. Fortunately, it is easy to research any approach and check its success rate. The NREPP provides reviews from independent sources, evaluating various practices and programs. The database is focused on mental health issues and substance abuse problems, but some of the programs may have other applications throughout the field. Overall, NREPP is a relatively new online database, and there are consistent updates that make it one to visit often.

4. Creative Social Worker

Social workers do not merely need the most current news. They also need emotional support and creative energy. That is why the Creative Social Worker is such a great blog to bookmark. The blog is operated by a social worker who works with children and young adults, and the blog content focuses on providing helpful applications for real success in the field. From sample questionnaires to printable activities, there is plenty of inspiration to work with here. Better still, visitors are encouraged to ask questions and receive peer-to-peer advice, making this blog educational, inspirational and interactive.

5. Social Workers Speak

This website is operated under the umbrella of the NASW, but it deserves a mention of its own. Unlike other websites, Social Workers Speak explores the profession with a meta-critical point of view. This website tracks the way social work is portrayed in the media. The entertainment industry is a powerful influence, and it can shape the narrative regarding important social issues. By analyzing these representations, it is possible to take back control of the narrative and improve the public’s awareness of the important work social workers do.

These links are just a few of the options. Mostly, it is important for social workers to remember that they are not alone and to seek out the support they need to learn, grow and improve the lives of those around them.

Related Resource: Top 10 Best Online Social Work Degree Programs