What should a social worker do if personal problems affect their performance?

Seeking consultation and taking remedial action is essential when personal problems affect a social worker's performance. This approach adheres to the ethical standards of the profession, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and maintaining competence in practice. Social workers bear a responsibility to ensure that their personal issues do not compromise the quality of care and support provided to clients.

By seeking consultation, social workers can access support from colleagues, supervisors, or mental health professionals, which fosters accountability and encourages proactive measures to address personal challenges. Taking remedial action can involve strategies such as obtaining therapy, adjusting workloads, or even taking a leave of absence if necessary to focus on personal well-being. This not only helps maintain professional integrity but also underscores the commitment to client welfare, a core value in social work ethics.

In contrast, continuing to work without changes would likely lead to decreased effectiveness in service delivery, potentially harming clients. Ignoring problems can exacerbate personal issues and negatively impact professional performance. Postponing seeking help can delay necessary intervention, further complicating the social worker's ability to function effectively in their role. Thus, actively seeking assistance and addressing these personal problems is the most responsible and ethical choice for a social worker.