March is National Social Work Month

By Vikki Peay, LCSW

Have you ever noticed how hard it can be to find someone to just listen objectively? And wouldn’t it be great if that person knew how to find resources to help? Or could teach you how to manage anxiety or depression? With social workers, you have a place to turn that is safe, confidential and affordable.

One of the things I love about my job at North Sunflower Medical Center is that I get the chance to assist people in the Mississippi Delta. While I cannot fix all the problems, I guide my patients in developing tools they need to navigate tough situations. Helping individuals overcome challenges so that they can live to their full potential is a daily goal.

Everyone has had struggles, ranging from the loss of a relationship or loved one, to difficulties with anxiety or parenting challenges. But a lot of people do not realize that social workers are well trained to deal with those issues and more.

I came to the field through a summer job at North Sunflower Medical Center when I was a teenager. I knew that I wanted a service career. It was only after seeing the life-changing impact in the social work program at NSMC that I saw my path.

Now I get the chance to use my training to study problems and pursue effective solutions for people in Ruleville and the surrounding area.

There is a misunderstanding that social workers deal mainly with government benefits or food stamps, but our field is much broader. When you are talking to a social worker, you are talking to someone who is highly prepared. Social workers are available in many settings including schools, military, agencies and faith based organizations. Child, family and school social workers stand up by protecting children who have been abused or neglected, helping children find new families through adoption, and support young people in reaching their full academic and personal potential.

Social workers generally share some traits: they are compassionate, resourceful, responsible and creative in problem solving.

Who can benefit from the service of a social worker? All ages. I work a lot with young people and find it rewarding because children are so bright and resilient. Today’s youth face many challenges, including things like bullying, depression and self-image problems, in our society. Issues affecting all ages include health care access, the national opioid addiction crisis and the need for social justice – present in the Delta and across the nation. Social workers are needed more now than ever before.

In my two years on the team at North Sunflower Medical Center, I have been fortunate to be a part of many successes and look forward to many more. I would also like to see more people join this field and become leaders, advocates and champions for our community and vulnerable populations.

Vikki is a Licensed Certified Social Worker, or LCSW, who is licensed to work in Mississippi and Louisiana.

LSW – Licensed Social Worker; Bachelor of Social Work + Exam
LMSW – Licensed Master of Social Worker; MSW, DSW or PH.D. + Exam
LCSW – Licensed Certified Social Worker ; MSW + Supervised Experience + Exam