Future directions and implications for social work practice in mental health

[Extract] Social work practice in mental health is an important area of practice. Throughout this book, we have emphasized the various dimensions of social work practice in mental health. Whether one is employed as a social worker in hospital settings, community settings or involved with rehabilitation activities, one thing that should influence Out practice is our code of ethics and adherence to the principles of social work values and principles. Social work has been defined by the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW 2012) as a profession that 'promotes social change, problem solving in human relationships and the empowerment and liberation of people to enhance well-being. Utilizing theories of human behavior and social systems, social work intervenes at the points where people interact with their environments. Principles of human rights and social justice are fundamental to social work.' Social work, as a profession, has come a long way in India after 75 years of existence and growth. However, when we attempt a SWOT analysis of the profession as such, there are lot of things which need to be done to make the best use of the enormous opportunities that lie ahead in the future and to face the threats with which we may be confronted. While it is an undeniable fact that the profession, unlike many other professions of the contemporary period, has withstood all vagaries of forces operating in the socio-economic and political milieu in the country, it is also an equally undeniable fact that the profession has not kept pace with the rapidly changing conditions and requirements. However, it is not too late and still, there is ample scope for the profession to correct its course and evolve itself as a highly respected profession with due recognition in society