Social Work 101

Social Work 101

By Michelle Williams, LMSW

Have you thanked a Social Worker recently?  March is Social Work month, so I thought I would share some information about my proud profession that has been around over 100 years. 

A Social Worker must have either a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited university.  Texas Social Workers are licensed by the Texas State Board of Social Work Examiners and must complete over 30 hours of continuing education with 6 hours specializing in ethics every 2 years.

According to the National Association of Social Workers, the primary mission of Social Work is to enhance human well-being and help meet the basic needs of all people, especially the most vulnerable.  There are more than 650,000 Social Workers in the US. This makes it one of the fastest growing professions in the United States!

Social workers can be found in many industries and organizations, both private and public agencies, working in hospitals, homes, prisons, and schools with people of all ages, nationalities and religions.  Social Workers help discover their client’s strengths to cope with the challenges of life, advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves, and improve daily function in relationships and environment.

I became a Social Worker over 20 years ago because I got a rush of excitement every time I helped make a difference in someone’s life for the better.  I had found my purpose!  When I connect a senior to The Friendship Center’s transportation or Meals on Wheels service, I still feel that same rush of excitement today.  I enjoy knowing the senior is able to remain home and to be a vital member of the community because of the services we provide.  I sleep better at night knowing that I have made a small difference in a senior’s life.

Advice from Ms. Mona

At least once a week, Ms. Mona gives me a hard time about spending so much time on the computer.  To be fair, my job requires me to work at a computer all day but still- she's right that I spend a lot of time on the computer.  Earlier this week I asked her if she had a computer or if she had ever learned to use one.  She said that her kids bought her one for Christmas a few years ago but she doesn't use it because she's afraid.  I asked why she was afraid and expected to get a response along the lines of "I'm embarrassed that I don't know how to use it" or "my personal information could get stolen" or something like that.  Instead she says, "I don't want to catch a computer virus".

What?!  I thought she was kidding!! Apparently she saw some special about computers on the news a few weeks after getting it that discussed some of the negative side effects of computer usage.  She remembers the special mentioning computer viruses and how we're more susceptible to them today because of how prevalent computers are.  It was all just a big misunderstanding that is quite humorous now, but it really upset me to think that she hasn't been able to use her wonderful Christmas gift for the past few years!

Technology can be quite daunting for those who aren't subject to using it often.  After sitting Ms. Mona down in front of one of our computers and showing her how she can access the newspaper, e-mail with her family/friends and look up pictures of sights all over the country- she's hooked!  I asked Ms. Mona what advice she would give to others who may be afraid to use/learn about computers and she said "Just get started and don't be afraid to ask questions".

I think I'm going to let that be my motto for the rest of the month.

FACE Depression grant

Blogging with Michelle Williams, LMSW

 

 

Happy New Year!

 

 

I am happy to be back at the Friendship Center after spending some wonderful quality time with my family during the holidays!

 

I am excited to share that we were approved for a grant with the U.S Department of Health and Human Services for a new program that will promote the awareness of depression in women age 50 plus. 

 

This month The Friendship Center's case management department lauched F.A.C.E. Depression which stands for Fostering Awareness Counseling Elders.  I see this as a wonderful addition to the services we are currently offering!  The case management department will be training our staff and volunteers this month on the signs and symptoms of depression to watch for in our seniors.  Please feel free to call and ask me your questions or concerns regarding depression.  Any signs or symptoms of depression will be referred to myself for an assessment, counseling and appropriate medical referrals. 

 

I attached our depression flyer, so that you can also be educated about the signs and symptoms of depression.  It takes many caring and concerned people to promote help to our hurting seniors.  Thank you as always for your care and concern!







Frequently Asked Questions about Depression

What is depression?

Depression is an illness that affects the body, mood, and thoughts. About twice as many women suffer from depression as men. People who are depressed may feel hopeless, worthless, very sad, and have no energy or interest in doing anything. Some people describe depression as an "empty, or sad feeling that won't go away." This kind of depression that does not go away is called "clinical depression." It is different from feeling "blue" or down for a few hours or a couple of days.

What causes depression?

Many things cause depression. Depression can run in families. Changes in your brain chemistry and living through painful and difficult events in your life can cause depression. Sometimes depression is caused by certain medications people take for cancer, arthritis, heart problems, and high blood pressure. Some illnesses such as Parkinson's disease, stroke, and hormonal problems can cause depression.

What are the signs of depression?

Here is a list of the most common signs of depression. If you have some of these signs that last for more than two weeks, see your health care provider.

•      Feeling empty, sad, and anxious

•      Feeling tired, having no energy

•      Feeling restless and irritable a lot of the time

•      Crying more than usual

•      Feeling worthless, helpless, hopeless, and guilty

•      Having no interest or joy in life

•      Having trouble sleeping, waking up very early in the morning

•      Having problems eating too much or too little food

•      Thinking about suicide and death

•      Having trouble concentrating, remembering, and making decisions

•      Having physical problems that don't go away when you take medicine, such as headaches, stomach problems, and pains in your body. 

How is depression treated?

Most people with depression get better when they get treatment. The two most common treatments for depression are medication and psychotherapy (talking with a trained counselor). Support groups can help. Sometimes just one treatment is used and sometimes a person takes medicine and sees a psychotherapist. Health care providers may need to try different medicines to find the one(s) that help you the most. It also may take a few weeks or months on the medicine before you begin to feel a change in your mood and outlook.

How can I get help for my depression?

Here are ways to get help for your depression.

•         Talk to your health care provider about how you are feeling. Get a checkup to see if there are physical problems or medicines that are causing your depression. Your health care provider can help you get the treatment you need.

•         Talk to a family member, friend, or religious leader you trust and who can help you find someone to treat your depression.

•         Get more information about depression by using the resources listed below.

Depression is not something you can just snap out of and feel better. Depression is a serious illness that needs to be treated. It's not your fault that you are depressed, and you can get better.

For More Information…

You can find out more about depression by contacting the National Women's Health Information Center at (800) 994-9662 or the following organizations:

National Institute of Mental Health

Phone Number(s): (800) 421-4211 Internet Address: http://www.nimh.nih.gov

National Foundation for Depressive Illness, Inc.

Phone Number(s): (800) 239-1265 Internet Address: http://www.depression.org

National Depressive and Manic Depressive Association

Phone Number(s): (800) 826-3632 Internet Address: http://www.ndmda.org

This FAQ was reviewed by Victoria Hendrick, M.D., of the University of California, Los Angeles. August 2002

www.4woman.gov – 800-994-WOMAN (9662) – 888-220-5446 (TDD)

“Funding for this activity was made possible in part by the HHS, Office on Women's Health. The views expressed in written materials or publications and by speakers and moderators at HHS-sponsored conferences, do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does the mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.”

 

Advice from Ms. Rita

Once a month, we ask some of the Senior Citizens who visit our activity centers to give us some advice they've learned over the years.  This month's advice comes from Ms. Rita.

Ms. Rita came in yesterday so excited because she finally got her ears pierced.  They had been pierced when she was younger but have long since closed up.  When I asked her why she decided to get her ears pierced now after all these years her response was simply "Why not?".  I asked her to explain and she said, "Well honey, this is something that I've wanted to do since I was a teenager but I was either too afraid or too focused on raising my family to do.  They're all raised now and I decided it was time to seize the day."

Since we're starting a New Year, I thought this would be a good piece of advice to share with everyone.  We've heard it a million times but maybe this year we'll actually listen.  Live life to the fullest! Every day do something new and different- maybe try some recipe you've had your eye on, book a trip, walk a little further than you did the day before, or even get your ears pierced if that's what you want! If life is what we make of it then let's spend this year making it good!

Happy New Year everyone!

Make It Happen- Volunteer

From our Guest Blogger, Mimi Witcher

All over the USA, Seniors are using their years of experience and knowledge in a servant leadership capacity in their communities.  They are volunteering their services when needed.

My sister sent me an email honoring Erma Bombeck for women's history month.  We all know who she is and have probably read her books.  She often volunteered to write sage tidbits for various publications.  I don't know where the following came from (written after she found out she was dying from cancer), but it's good advice.

Passing the Purple Hat to You

If I Had it to Do Over Again

 

I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.

 

I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.

 

I would have talked less and listened more.  I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained, or the sofa faded.

 

I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.

 

I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.

 

I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.

 

I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.

 

I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life.

 

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.

 

Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.

 

When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, "Later.  Now go get washed up for dinner."

 

There would have been more "I love you's"... more... "I'm sorry's".  But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute... look at it and really see it... live it and never give it back.

 

 

 

STOP SWEATING THE SMALL STUFF!!!

 

Don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing what.  Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who do love us.

 

 

 

Mimi Witcher is co-founder of Computer School for Boomers & Seniors, a web campus with a mission to empower their students by providing encouragement, lifelong learning opportunities and new worlds to explore via the Internet.  (http://www.cs4seniors.com)

 

 

 

Dear Friends,

I have attached a great article for caregiver's who are caring for someone in their home.  This is essential information to keep the peace at home during the craziness of the holidays.  We are here to help with support and encouragement along the way!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Michelle Williams, LMSW
(936) 756-5828 #32

Write your own Sanity Clause

You can make adjustments in Holiday routines to make the season more enjoyable for the caregiver and the care recipient.  Spending time with family and friends is often important for you both.  Remember that you are entitled to enjoy quality time with your family during Holiday visits.

Make yourself some promises this Holiday season:

1.     I will take quality time for myself.  You deserve time away from your loved one.  This is not selfish.  You have your own identity and interests.

2.     I am not a Superman/Superwoman.  Accept your limits to reduce anxiety and help your loved one.

3.     I will take proactive steps to reduce my stress level.  Exercise regularly and eat healthy food.

4.     I will only spend what I can afford.  Try not to go overboard on your gift buying.

5.     I will share the care with other family members.  Learn to ask others for help without feeling guilty.

6.     I will strive to understand my negative feelings and emotions.  Confront these feelings and begin to make positive changes in your life.

7.     I will enjoy myself in moderation.  Don’t let stress cause certain behaviors to get out of control.

8.     I will not inflate my expectations of the season.  We often set ourselves up for disappointment by imagining the perfect family Holiday.  In actuality, it is one where you feel loved and share your love with others.

 

“Write Your Own Sanity Clause”.  Rich O’Boyle & Thomas J. Schmacher

Time is so precious!

From our guest Blogger, Bill Witcher

Enjoy your time with them,

they are so precious

and they grow up so fast!

A woman I work with walked into my office last week proudly showing off her one year old granddaughter.  They were both all smiles.  Mable was a very proud Grandmother with a precious gift in her arms.  Whenever this happens, I find myself making the usual comments, "How cute." "What a great smile." "Beautiful eyes" etc. and then I usually say what has become so evident to me, "Enjoy your time with her, she is so precious and they grow up very fast."

Mimi and I cherish the time we have with our three wonderful grandchildren.  They are very special little people.  They mean a lot to us and we value the time we spend with them.  As we grow older we have come to realize time is our most precious commodity.

Your priorities determine how you spend your time, and your time is an important priority.  The following statements shared by John Maxwell may help put time in perspective:

"To know the value of one year...ask the student who failed the final exam.
To know the value of one week...ask the editor of a weekly news magazine.
To know the value of one day...ask the wage earner who has six children.
To know the value of one hour...ask the lovers who are waiting to meet.
To know the value of one minute...ask the person who missed the plane.
To know the value of one second...ask the person who survived the accident.
To know the value of one millisecond...ask the Olympic silver medalist."

Your time is priceless.  As Ralph Waldo Emerson advised, "Guard well your spare moments.  They are like uncut diamonds.  Discard them and their value will never be known.  Improve them and they will become the brightest gems in a useful life."

Bill Witcher is co-founder of Computer School for Boomers & Seniors, a web campus with a mission to empower their students by providing encouragement, lifelong learning opportunities and new worlds to explore via the Internet.  (http://www.cs4seniors.com)