Social Work Education; the international journal - student essay competition*

ABSTRACT

This paper explores a Social Work focus upon intersecting mental health and recovery-oriented practices. A discussion of historical and current biomedical approach limitations to mental health and pertinent ethical considerations for social workers examines policy and practice incongruences and suggests current recovery-focused policy in Australia is available for to Social Work to capitalise on for better outcomes of service provision. Written as a course assessment from the perspective of a mature aged Social Work student, personal aspects of reflective practice in relation to new social workers participating as agents of biomedical discourse is briefly discussed. Overall intentions are to reflect on opportunities for Social Work as a practice body and social workers new and experienced to orient toward a less submissive role where operating within current biomedical paradigms.

KEYWORDS:

• Social work
• Mental Health
• Recovery-focus

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Reaching students and international audiences: the positive trajectory of the journal

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Notes on contributors

Justin West

Justin West is a new Social Worker currently working at Kevin Heinze Grow in Melbourne, Australia.