By 1st Lt. Sanjeev Gurung, 555th Engineering Brigade/Madigan social work intern
MADIGAN ARMY MEDICAL CENTER, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. – In case you have ever sought behavioral healthcare, have kids at school, or obtained therapy for substance use, chances are high you have got met a social employee.

These healthcare professionals have earned a Grasp of Social Work or a doctorate and work with people, households and organizations to handle their wants and issues. They work in several settings, from group facilities and colleges to state and federal companies.

March is nationwide social work month. This affords a chief alternative to tell the general public and coverage makers concerning the vital social position staff play in diversified settings.

This yr the Nationwide Affiliation of Social Employees has designated the theme of “social work breaks obstacles.”

Each traditionally and at the moment, social staff are on the forefront of social change and development. From Frances Perkins serving to to determine a minimal wage and Social Safety because the secretary of Labor in the course of the Nice Melancholy to innovative therapies which might be supporting kids and households.

Right here at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., there are a variety of remarkable social staff breaking obstacles to assist Troopers and households overcome hurdles and thrive of their social {and professional} lives.

How lengthy have you ever been a social employee? How lengthy have you ever been working with the navy inhabitants?

I obtained my Grasp of Social Work in 1991. I joined the navy in 2011.

What attracted you to this career?

The flexibility. I knew that I wished to work in human providers and knew that I used to be keen on working in a number of roles inside this discipline. As a social employee, I’ve been capable of do scientific, analysis, administrative and coverage work in each the personal and public sectors together with within the navy.

How have your damaged obstacles labored?

By pondering in a different way. Progressive individuals are reexamining the methods during which we serve Troopers. We’re working in direction of altering our approaches to be extra attentive to the wants of Troopers and the readiness of the Military. This typically requires breaking down obstacles as most of the current approaches are systemically entrenched.