Ethical Practice Includes Self-Care

In 2021, the National Association of Social Workers officially amended their Code of Ethics to include language that addresses the critical nature of professional self-care. NASW addresses the importance of self-care as a, “key component of ethical and professional excellence. This aligns with empirical research demonstrating that proactive self-care reduces the likelihood of impairment and enhances job satisfaction and professional longevity.” NASW specifically includes educational institutions in their encouragement to professionals to promote policies, practices, and materials that support self-care. In consideration of the best practice standards of CSWE, NASW, and the experience of practitioners, there is an undeniable need for a proactive approach to guide students in establishing a self-care practice to ensure they are well prepared for their future as a professional. Both research and practice experience tell us that social work education must incorporate an understanding of trauma’s effects on our students and the clients they serve. This importance is spotlighted in the field education experience, as students face new and often stressful learning experiences in the community and with clients. 

Trauma-Informed Self-Care Practice

There is increased recognition in the health and wellness professions of the effects of secondary trauma on practitioners’ health and wellbeing. Researchers, health professionals, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) acknowledge the need for integrating evidence-based and emerging Trauma-Informed practices. The Council for Social Work Education (CSWE) recognizes the importance of a trauma-informed education as one that includes research and best practice standards. Practitioners know that secondary trauma and vicarious trauma are unfortunately common amongst social workers and service providers, and that education on preventing these are critical to professional growth and development.

In the field experience students learn that it is in the best interest of the clients we serve when we as practitioners understand how trauma manifests in our client’s experience. Our clients are best served when service providers specifically understand the pervasiveness of trauma in our society, the impact that traumatic experiences can have on an individual, group, family, organization, and the community, and how to create and maintain their own sustainable social work practice and self-care.