When a child or loved one is ill, or when you yourself are ill, it can be a very difficult situation for family members to deal with. When a person faces a serious illness, it can bring with it emotional, financial and other problems. In the context of a serious illness, it can be very appropriate to seek support in social work from a professional: the social worker.
Find out how one or more social work consultations can help people cope with illness.
A trained mental health professional
When a parent or child becomes ill, it is usually a very difficult time for the family. Not only do we face the uncertainty of the illness, but it is an event that can have repercussions in all areas of daily life. Medical needs, hospitalizations and treatments can pose practical challenges, but they can also cause financial problems. And that’s not to mention all the emotional difficulties that the situation can bring.
In this context, which can be very difficult, the mental health of those affected can be put to the test. This is why it is necessary to seek support. Social workers are trained in mental health and are able to guide their clients through such challenges. In addition, they can help deal with problems that may arise within the family, but also within the couple.
How can social work help?
- The social worker can intervene in a counselling context. This means that he/she listens carefully to the problems you are experiencing. He or she can then suggest ways to improve them.
- They can offer support to all those affected: children, teenagers, parents, couples, the family as a whole, etc.
- They can refer the person to support groups or put them in touch with other individuals who are going through a similar situation.
- They can direct you to the right resources that are available to you in your community. This may include financial assistance or home support.
- They can guide and support you through the processes inherent in the hospital environment. They can help you advocate for yourself.
- They can help you deal with stress, guilt, grief, etc.
- He or she can help the child if he or she is having problems at school due to the illness.
- And so on.
Social work : for personalized advice and solutions
There is no need to be ashamed or afraid to seek help when you or a loved one is facing an illness. Each situation is different and each individual has his or her own way of dealing with such an ordeal. This is why it is appropriate to seek personalized support from a social worker.
Clinique GO™ offers an online social work consultation service. It is then possible to get advice and support through virtual consultations.
Approuvé par Francis Desjardins
