Competency 1: Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behaviors
Social work is one of those activities where professional and ethical competence is a vital component when cooperating with addicts. It is essential to observe this behavior model when interacting with people with addictions, particularly opioids. The opioid crisis is a significant problem that is still acute today.
The social worker may have difficulties collaborating with such people related to personal values, lack of professionalism, and lack of education. The specialist should be ethical and not participate in any form of discrimination. They should have tact, restraint, and the ability to let go of prejudices.
Competency 2: Engage Diversity and Difference in Practice
Professional and moral problems arise for a social worker in all spheres of his activity, especially with this clientele type. I am no exception, as I previously had biases about addicts of various drugs because their behavior was contrary to my values. However, after studying this topic, its origins, and practice, the specialist understands that people with addictions are not the same; their motives, character, and stories are varied.
A social worker should penetrate the client’s problem and help make sense of the situation. Supporting and assisting the educated in this area is an excellent example of encouragement, as shown in the video of Tessa’s case. Theoretical understanding of the professional and ethical foundations of social work in the educational process should help develop the skills of future experts to resolve moral problems and prevent the possibility of their occurrence.
Competency 3: Advance Human Rights, Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice
A social worker should make clients aware of the risks, rights, opportunities, and responsibilities associated with the service. This video raises the social and economic rights of people under the influence of the opioid crisis. In this case, it is not only the addicts themselves but also their families, particularly their children: they are left without housing, material support, without financial means.
Victims should be provided with individual assistance; addicts should be placed in appropriate clinics; their children should be equipped with housing, food, and other necessities. The main reason for the widespread use of opioids has been the criminal actions of pharmaceutical companies. Therefore, it is vital to give ongoing education and counseling to medical personnel and patients.