Why are Social Work Jobs in Demand? – 25 Biggest Reasons
Caitlin GoodwinCaitlin Goodwin DNP, CNM, RN
Caitlin Goodwin is a Certified Nurse-Midwife who has been a nurse for 12 years, primarily in women’s health. She is passionate about caring for children with developmental disabilities, as her son has Autism Spectrum Disorder. Caitlin loved working as a camp nurse for a summer camp for those with special needs. Read Full Bio »» DNP, CNM, RN
The demand for social work jobs is multifaceted, driven by the unique challenges of society and the necessary support they provide across different sectors. The goal is to have enough social workers to effectively connect people with the resources and support they need the most when they need it the most. In essence, social work is a noble but challenging profession.
With so many complexities, you may wonder, “Why are social work jobs in demand?” As a nurse, I rely on the invaluable role of social workers in supporting patients in the hospital, transitioning during discharge, and in their homes. Social work is indispensable in addressing the complex needs of individuals, families, and communities. Following rigorous and extensive training, these professionals create magic for patients and families who need that support. This article will cover the 25 biggest reasons why social work jobs are in demand and explore the most in-demand areas where social workers can create a meaningful impact and support for those who need it the most.
What is the Estimated 10-Year Demand for Social Work Jobs?
The social work industry should brace itself for a massive surge in demand over the next decade. The estimated 10-year market for social work is that the field will need 11.09% more social workers between 2021 and 2031. The anticipated increase underscores the critical role of this profession and the public need for social work services. Their vital role in addressing social, healthcare, and communities led to increased demand for social workers. This escalating job availability is one of the biggest reasons social work jobs are in demand.
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Why are Social Work Jobs in Demand?
(The following are the 25 biggest reasons why social work jobs are in demand.)
REASON #1: Increasing Need for Mental Health Support in the Public Sector
There has been a surge in mental health issues over the past few years. Between 2019 and 2020, almost
21% of adults in the United States experienced a mental illness. Due to economic challenges, global crises, and decreasing the stigma against mental health treatment have led to a rise in anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Social workers enable support services to be more accessible to all communities. If more individuals need these services, more social workers are the way to ensure that they will receive them.
REASON #2: Supporting School-Age Children and Teenagers
School-age children and teenagers navigate a different world from prior generations. Between social media, cyberbullying, and societal issues, there are unique challenges they must deal with daily. Social workers work in schools and community centers to provide counseling, support, and resources to the children who most need them. With social workers helping children develop resilience and cope with problems, their presence in the educational environment is vital.
REASON #3: Facilitating Adoption from Birth Parents
Social workers are an excellent resource for adoptive families and birth parents alike. Emotions tend to run high during times with so much at stake. Social workers bridge the gap to provide guidance, counseling, and resources during this sensitive time. Social workers ensure that all parties know their options and rights and focus on the best interests of the child.
REASON #4: Supporting Foster Children
Foster children often come from complicated backgrounds that may require additional needs. With traumatic experiences and emotional burdens, social workers provide stability and emotional support. They work closely with children and foster families to ensure a safe environment and help them adapt to their new surroundings. Over the last decade,
the number of children in foster care has grown. Thus, the need for social workers in this field also grows.
REASON #5: Hospitals Need Resources
While hospitals do a great job of providing medical care, they often need additional resources to address social, emotional, and psychological challenges. One of the top reasons social work jobs are in demand is their ability to coordinate post-discharge care, counseling, and connecting patients with supportive resources.
REASON #6: Home Visits are Important
Home health visits by healthcare workers are essential to patients because they provide a look at living conditions, family dynamics, and other factors impacting their health. When social workers provide this service, they can link families with resources. Social workers can tailor comprehensive care to unique situations, such as the living environment, family dynamics, and health conditions. The insight into patient lives enables social workers to recommend interventions, resources, or other tailored services.
REASON #7: People are Open to Seeking Therapy
As stereotypes shifted following the pandemic, people emphasized supporting mental health more. With the stigmatization of mental health services decreasing, people feel more comfortable in seeking therapy services. Talking about feelings, traumas, and challenges is becoming more mainstream. For example, couples, families, and individuals can seek support for their struggles. Social workers can support these patients as they navigate through the complexities of life with therapy and counseling.
REASON #8: Aging Populations
With the baby boomers reaching the age where they are retiring and have more chronic diseases, social workers are more in need to care for this generation. The aging population increases the amount of necessary medical resources and services an older adult needs. Baby boomers face unique health challenges as well as the natural process of aging. This combination creates a surge in demand for healthcare services tailored to their needs and the social workers who support them. Key benefits of utilizing social workers involve navigating the healthcare system, ensuring safety in their living environments, addressing mental health needs, supporting end-of-life choices, and managing the multifaceted challenges of retirement.
REASON #9: Education Challenges
Crucial concerns include addressing the complexity of educational needs following the pandemic, supporting learning disparities, and special education needs. Socioeconomic factors have a significant impact on student educational performance. Social workers can help students, families, and community members to address specific and broad education concerns and contribute to academic success.
REASON #10: Increased Mental Health Support
The pandemic amplified and contributed to a rise in the need for healthcare services. In the last few years, the number of mental health conditions like anxiety and depression has skyrocketed. With stigma starting to lift from those seeking mental health support, the increased demand for mental healthcare is one of the top reasons social work jobs are in demand.
REASON #11: Public Health Crises
Beyond the pandemic, there are many other public health crises. Some of these involve the opioid epidemic, soaring rates of Black maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, and escalating mental health concerns. These crises trained professionals to connect people with their needed services and care. Social workers use their expertise to navigate these scenarios through crisis intervention, advocacy, supportive services, policy development, and community education.
REASON #12: Rising Outpatient Health Services
As the population ages, so does the number of chronic diseases they experience. Increasing numbers of people with chronic illnesses spend the majority of their time each day at home or in outpatient settings instead of health facilities. As the number of older adults increases, the need for social workers is expanding to support these needs. Utilizing home care is cost-effective and provides the familiar surroundings of home as they receive care. Social workers are integral in settings with all people with chronic disease. Social workers meet the psychosocial needs of community members by connecting people to community resources and supporting their needs, particularly while dealing with the challenges of chronic illness.
REASON #13: Rise in Intimate Partner Violence and Child Abuse Cases
Starting during the pandemic,
intimate partner violence and child maltreatment increased. Social workers play an essential role in circumstances surrounding violence by providing support, intervention, and resources. They also collaborate with legal systems, provide counseling, and transition individuals to a safer environment. The expertise of social workers enables communities, families, and individuals to navigate the impacts of these serious challenges. The likelihood of an adult in the United States
experiencing severe physical violence by an intimate partner in their life is growing.
REASON #14: Increasing Substance and Alcohol Use Disorder
In recent years, there has been an increase in substance use disorder and alcohol misuse. The significant stressors following economic and public health crises contribute to an escalation in these disorders. These additional needs heighten the demand for social workers who can support, educate, intervene, and facilitate rehabilitation programs. While alcohol use was shown to have increased in some studies or remained the same in others,
substance use increased across all studies during the pandemic.
REASON #15: Advocacy Work
While this may not be the primary reason for some, advocacy work is one of the top reasons why social work jobs are in demand. Social workers are increasingly sought after for their skills in advocating for vulnerable populations, influencing policy changes, and fighting for social justice causes. They are a strong voice to address complex social issues.
REASON #16: Growing Population
US population is projected to slow its growth in the near future, there remains a growing population in various regions across the country. Social workers are more in demand because they are needed to navigate the routine needs and complexities of their communities. Social workers are crucial to ensuring the diverse needs of this population are met effectively through healthcare access, education, and community resources. The demand for social workers underscores their unique ability to foster community well-being.
REASON #17: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
The commitment to provide diverse populations with an inclusive and equitable healthcare landscape can improve lives. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are crucial to the health and overall fabric of society. The intersection of diverse societal factors impacts the ability to receive equitable and inclusive services. Understanding how these societal norms intersect in all areas of healthcare enables social workers to provide tailored support.
REASON #18: Government Programs
The government subsidizes programs that are critical to the well-being of society. Social workers are an integral part of implementing and distributing these services. Those who facilitate government-supported initiatives plan, develop, and coordinate programs. They conduct needs assessments, provide counseling, and vacate for clients and communities. Social workers offer case management services to help clients navigate the complex system in order to access resources.
REASON #19: Policy Creation
Social workers have expertise in creating policies and procedures that shape healthcare at all levels. They can advocate for appropriate policy due to their deep understanding of the needs and challenges the community faces. Social workers focus on ensuring that all procedures are inclusive and equitable. Social workers can address complex health needs by focusing on the overall well-being of the community.
REASON #20: Research
Healthcare research shapes all areas of care and has long-lasting impacts on current practice. One of the top reasons why social work jobs are in demand is that they conduct studies that shape healthcare and contribute to understanding the social determinants of health. Social workers also work to improve patient outcomes by following current research and providing effective care.
REASON #21: School and Education Support
The role of social workers in education is diverse and includes various ages, including school-aged children. These professionals address the complex and evolving needs of students and families. Social workers provide counseling, support, and resources to address the complex issues or mental health concerns of children and families. By preparing children to focus on mental health issues and creating a safe and inclusive space, social workers can contribute to the success of educational programs.
REASON #22: Veterans
According to recent studies, veterans experience an increase in healthcare needs post-service and are less likely to receive adequate support. Veterans often have complex physical and mental health needs and face unique challenges. Social workers can help veterans receive the services they need by navigating the nuances of the healthcare system. Social workers facilitate access to the services that veterans may need and provide specific support for the health and social challenges after service.
REASON #23: Economic Downturns
Social workers provide resources for financial support following economic downturns. During economic downturns, social workers can provide resources, support, and education to those across multiple income brackets. Social workers are adept at navigating the complexities of social support to support individuals and families who need financial assistance, grocery support, or help with daycare costs.
REASON #24: Housing Instability
Individuals experiencing housing instability benefit from the expertise of social workers. Social workers are indispensable in addressing those who have lost their homes or have only temporary residence. These professionals can provide many resources to families for housing contacts, food benefits, childcare support, and reduced utility costs. As a nurse, I relied heavily on the advice and support of hospital social workers when caring for and discharging a patient grappling with housing challenges. Social workers contribute to stabilizing the lives of many people, including those experiencing unstable housing.
REASON #25: Globalization of Healthcare
Coming in last is one of the biggest reasons social work jobs are in demand. The globalization of healthcare means the system must integrate diverse professionals, practices, and health perspectives. The role of social workers applies to assisting migrants and refugees or addressing global challenges like pandemics. The need for social workers to navigate the complex healthcare landscape is essential for these developing changes.
What are the 10 States With the Highest Demand for Social Work Jobs?
The top ten states with the highest need for social workers provide the best opportunity for job seekers to snag a job. These locations are scattered across the country and range from a job outlook increase of 41.51% to 18.64%. Maryland is the tenth state with the highest demand for social work jobs, with a 10-year job outlook of 18.64%. The first state is Arizona, with a 10-year job outlook of 41.51%
Rank | State | 10-Year Job Outlook |
1 | Arizona | +41.51% |
2 | Colorado | +33.12% |
3 | New York | +26.67% |
4 | Tennessee | +22.96% |
5 | Mississippi | +21.56% |
6 | Idaho | +20.75% |
7 | Nevada | +20.17% |
8 | Utah | +20.15% |
9 | Texas | +19.36% |
10 | Maryland | +18.64% |
(Source: Careeronestop.org) |
What are the 10 Metros With the Highest Demand for Social Work Jobs?
The ten metropolitan areas with the highest demand for social work jobs are sprinkled across the countries. Due to the varying salaries, consider weighing your potential finances against the cost of living. The tenth metro is the busy Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Anaheim areas. Next comes the Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and Bloomington metro. Eighth is the Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellevue metro in Washington state. Seventh is tropical Florida in the Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach metro. Next comes Georgia in the Atlanta, Sandy Springs, and Roswell metro.
The fourth and fifth are the Dallas/Fort Worth and Houston respective Texas metropolitan areas. The third most in-demand metro for social work jobs is the Nashville, Davidson, Murfreesboro, and Franklin metro in Tennessee. The second is the New York City and Jersey City metro. The primary in-demand metro for social work jobs is in sunny Arizona in the Phoenix, Mesa, and Scottsdale areas.
Rank | Metro | 10-Year Job Outlook |
1 | Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale | +41.51% |
2 | New York-Newark-Jersey City | +26.67% |
3 | Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | +22.96% |
4 | Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | +19.36% |
5 | Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land | +19.36% |
6 | Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell | +19.02% |
7 | Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | +17.75% |
8 | Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | +14.95% |
9 | Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington | +12.31% |
10 | Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | +12.21% |
(Source: Careeronestop.org) |
Bonus! What are the 5 Most In-Demand Social Work Jobs?
Social workers are in demand because they can work in various fields like clinical, educational, and community health to meet the needs of each section of the population. As societal and healthcare challenges become more complex, social work professionals work in different roles and disciplines to support the most urgent issues in society. The following five needed social work jobs address major societal challenges and needs to create positive change in the well-being of individuals and communities.
1. Healthcare Social Worker
Many patients require visits with their providers and specialists while receiving therapy or using durable medical equipment, which can be overwhelming. These social workers help patients and families navigate the healthcare and home care systems to coordinate post-hospital care. With the aging population and the desire of many older adults to remain in their homes as long as possible, this role is growing in need.
2. Mental Health Professional
Following the pandemic, mental health disorders are at an all-time high and climbing. As mental health conditions become destigmatized, the demand for social workers to support this community is increasing.
3. Substance and Alcohol Use Therapist
Following the pandemic, another central area of concern is alcohol and drug use. During the time of quarantining, an increased number of people began to misuse alcohol and other substances. As substance and alcohol use disorders grow, the need for trained professionals to support these patients also grows.
4. Child and Family Services Social Worker
School-related issues, adoption, foster care, violence in school, bullying, and social media use are all areas where families benefit from the technical knowledge and intervention offered by social workers. As these challenges children face continue to occur, families need supportive resources to protect children and keep them safe.
5. Geriatric Social Worker
By focusing on working with older adults, they can support them in navigating the challenges of aging, advocating for older adults, or connecting them with valuable community and medical services. As life expectancy increases, the need for these specialized services will too.
My Final Thoughts
Why are social work jobs in demand? Because social work is crucial to addressing major societal issues. As a nurse, my firsthand experience with the importance of social workers is a testament to their indispensable role in comprehensive healthcare. There are
numerous types of social work jobs out there, and many desperately seek a skilled professional to assist their population. The increasing demand for social workers reflects the significant challenges people face today and the acknowledgment that they improve the lives of many people. Luckily, the 25 most significant reasons why social work jobs are in demand show that many other organizations and communities realize their benefits and continue hiring for social work roles.
Caitlin Goodwin DNP, CNM, RN
Caitlin Goodwin is a Certified Nurse-Midwife who has been a nurse for 12 years, primarily in women’s health. She is passionate about caring for children with developmental disabilities, as her son has Autism Spectrum Disorder. She is currently working as a freelance writer and consultant and is passionate about advocating for her patients, students, and profession.