A social worker speaks with a homeless man in this January photo from Hungary. Social workers are in short supply, but they often keep small problems from escalating, writes Betsy Cauble, and can help make society safer for all. Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images
With crime rates remaining stubbornly above the national average, crime is a top concern for Maryland residents. Lawmakers desperately need new solutions to this old problem.
States are increasingly realizing the value of a holistic approach that provides preventative care as well as protective and punitive measures to offenders. Social workers, often the first line of defense against smaller issues that could grow into crises if unaddressed, are in high demand and short supply throughout Maryland and the nation.
Maryland lawmakers must make it a top priority to address the social worker shortage and, consequently, to create a safer state.
Increased access to mental health professionals can lower crime rates. Too often, individuals with mental health issues are unable to get the support they need until it’s too late. Unaddressed mental health needs or substance abuse disorders can spiral into criminal behavior without proper treatment.
For instance, nearly 20% of male and 30% of female inmates in Montgomery County jails have a serious or persistent mental illness. Many of them repeatedly committed the same minor offenses. Social workers can change the narrative by promptly addressing the root causes and helping underserved populations succeed. Ensuring everyone has quick access to mental health support networks is a vital step toward reducing crime throughout Maryland.
Mental health care professionals create stronger communities, even for those they never work with. Research shows that mental health and substance abuse treatment can reduce violence and property crime, leading to lower incarceration rates and healthier communities. Expanding these preventative care networks throughout the state allows the whole state to benefit from lower crime rates and safer neighborhoods.
Maryland lawmakers who are serious about crafting real solutions to crime rates must prioritize legislation that increases the number of available social workers. Currently, there simply aren’t enough providers for the demand. The result is unacceptable delays, with some patients waiting hours for urgent mental health care.
While the state has already made important strides toward a holistic solution, such as Gov. Wes Moore’s $13.5 million in grants to bolster behavioral health crisis services, there is still much more to do.
In the short term, allowing social workers to practice across state lines can provide immediate relief to communities experiencing a severe shortage of mental health practitioners. If it goes into effect, the Social Work Licensure Compact’s multistate license would allow licensed social workers to practice in all participating states without going through the lengthy process of relicensing themselves in each state.
Especially in the interconnected DMV area, enabling social workers from Virginia and D.C. to work in high-need Maryland communities will relieve pressure from Maryland mental health practitioners while ensuring that urgent needs are promptly addressed.
A long-term solution to the mental health care shortage starts with removing unnecessary barriers to entry. Would-be social workers are often turned away because of the high financial cost and low pay. Simple steps can make a meaningful impact on the financial calculus for those considering social work.
For example, organizations working with social work interns should offer compensation, as the vast majority of internships in other industries already do. The state government must also continue to prioritize scholarships and grants for social work schools and students. These changes can make social work a more viable option for the next generation, preventing growing shortages that would only continue to drive students away.
Social workers are an essential part of a healthy society. Their training and resources can protect and empower countless Marylanders. As a state – as lawmakers and voters – Maryland must recognize her responsibility to communities in need.
Safe communities are rooted in a strong mental health care system, which requires a statewide commitment to the social workers who are an integral part of the mental health safety net. The entire state will be stronger for it.