Dilemma Description: From a personal perspective, the dilemma involves grappling
Dilemma Description: From a personal perspective, the dilemma involves grappling with the memory of my brother’s struggle with mental illness and the impact of inadequate care on his life, leading to his tragic death. This personal experience fuels my commitment to advocating for individuals with mental illness and ensuring they receive appropriate treatment and care. Professionally, the dilemma centers around the conflict within the interdisciplinary team regarding the length of stay for psychiatric patients. While I believe some patients require more time for stabilization, there is pressure from senior team members to discharge patients early due to managed care constraints and financial considerations.
Obligations: As a social worker, my primary obligation is to advocate for the well-being and best interests of my clients, which includes ensuring they receive appropriate and comprehensive care to address their mental health needs. This obligation is grounded in the NASW Code of Ethics, particularly in the principles of social justice, dignity and worth of the person, and the importance of client self-determination (Workers-2008). Additionally, I have an obligation to uphold professional integrity and ethical standards in my interactions and decision-making within the interdisciplinary team.
Obligation to Colleague: While I have a duty to advocate for my clients, I also recognize my obligation to approach the dilemma with empathy and professionalism towards my colleague. This involves initiating open and respectful communication with my supervisor to discuss our differing perspectives and the potential impact of early discharge on patient outcomes. By addressing the conflict directly and collaboratively, we can work towards finding a mutually beneficial solution that prioritizes the well-being of our clients.
Mediating Personal Conflict: To mediate the personal conflict stemming from my brother’s experience, I must acknowledge and process my emotions while maintaining professionalism in my interactions with colleagues and clients. This may involve seeking support from a supervisor, mentor, or peer supervision group to navigate the emotional challenges and ensure that my personal experiences do not interfere with my ability to effectively advocate for clients. Additionally, engaging in self-care practices such as mindfulness, therapy, or reflective journaling can help me manage the emotional impact of the dilemma while remaining focused on my professional obligations.(denisha)
