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What is the hardest line of work in the Social Work field?

I am asking this question because I will be getting my social work degree once I complete the last course I need. #social-work #social-worker

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Caitlyn’s Answer

“Hard” is relative, and can be different depending on your own life experiences. I do psychiatric evaluations and am frequently told that my job is hard; but I find it fulfilling and even enjoyable. I had a friend who ran groups for child sexual abuse perpetrators and I believe that that would be a very difficult job.

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Kendra’s Answer

Hello, it depends on the person. I say volunteer in different populations and base it of experience.
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Donna’s Answer

Mental Healthcare Management
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Debbie Yoro’s Answer

There are so many different types of fields, populations, industries to consider. Since everyone has own unique strengths and interests there's usually something suitable to choose from and what might be "hard" some, might not be hard for others. It might take a few years/trials to see which one sticks.


I tend to look for work that is rewarding, offers growth, and flexibility. My previous work post MSW includes adolescent inpatient mental health, discharge planning, home health, outpatient medical clinic and behavioral health clinician in primary care. I thought the first two were more difficult and less rewarding mentally and emotionally. To me, a job is hard when there is never enough time to do the job and you're needing to cut corners all the time and it doesn't feel great. It's also when there is not enough support for you to do the job and it's not worth it financially. Sometimes a hard job is worth staying in just for the experience and growth. It can be a stepping stone for better jobs.


I've always enjoyed being in healthcare therefore I think the later two positions have been a better fit for me. Flexibility to me means to be able to work per diem, part time or to have two jobs part time jobs at the same time. At some point I might choose to work from home.


"Easy" might not be rewarding especially if it leads to boredom. It helps to keep learning and growing and sometimes growth is "hard" or challenging.

Debbie Yoro recommends the following next steps:

Think about populations you connect with? Elderly, women with addiction, children who are survivors of trauma, etc. Also consider locations/areas: prison, hospital, homes, corporations, community, public policy, etc. Ask yourself, "Who would I like to help?"
Think about what's important for you. How can work be rewarding for you and what do you need to feel engaged?
Although this has nothing to do with the question....when you get an offer for a job, always ask for more. It might not work all the time but you'll feel good for asking. Females often don't ask for more money while men do and get paid more. Yes, it's uncomfortable but it pays off.
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