March 2026:
South Dakota Human Services Center Mental Health Memo: Celebrating Social Work Month by Jennifer Luke, Human Services Social Worker, and Quinn Hamilton, Social Work Intern.
What is Social Work Month?
Social Work Month is an annual observance held every March to recognize the profound contributions social workers make on our communities. First celebrated in 1963, Social Work Month provides an opportunity to increase awareness of the profession’s contributions and to acknowledge the essential role social workers play in improving access to care, advancing equality, and promoting whole person well-being. For 2026 the National Association of Social Workers has designated the theme: Social Workers: Uplift. Defend. Transform.
What Do Social Workers Do?
Social workers advocate for individuals, provide education, and deliver clinical support across many settings to ensure vulnerable South Dakotans receive essential services. In behavioral health hospitals, they connect patients, families, providers, and community systems to support continuity of care. Their work when carried out in behavioral healthcare includes assessments, crisis intervention, treatment coordination, discharge planning, and linking individuals to resources such as housing, transportation, outpatient treatment, and financial assistance.
Why Is This Work Important?
Social workers are important because they play a critical role in improving patient outcomes by ensuring underlying factors impacting a patient’s health are addressed by practitioners with specific competencies. Recovery is not solely clinical, it is deeply connected to social stability, support systems, and community reintegration. By fostering resilience and empowerment, they help build a stronger community where every citizen is given the opportunity to thrive.
Social Work and Behavioral Health
Social Work Month underscores the need for a strong behavioral health workforce to meet rising mental health and substance use needs. Social workers apply a person‑in‑environment approach grounded in trauma‑informed care, recovery principles, and community integration. As essential members of treatment teams, they help ensure discharge plans align with available community resources and support long‑term recovery.
How to Celebrate Social Work Month
Since its establishment, Social Work Month has served as an opportunity to:
- Raise public awareness about the role and value of social workers
- Advocate for policy improvements
- Highlight the profession’s impact on vulnerable populations
- Strengthen professional identity and pride within the field
Departments and organizations often mark the occasion with leadership messages, recognition events, and other opportunities to honor the dedication and expertise of their social work staff.
To learn more about a career as a Social Worker and other career paths in Behavioral Health visit https://sdbehavioralhealthcareers.sd.gov/explore-careers.
February 2026:
South Dakota Human Services Center Mental Health Memo: Natasha Auch – Psychiatric Social Worker
Courtesy photo.
Winter Wellness: Staying Connected and Mentally Healthy During the Cold Months
How does winter weather affect our relationships and mental health?
Living in South Dakota makes winter unpredictable. Snowstorms and icy roads often lead to canceled plans, which can feel disappointing and introduce barriers to remaining connected. Many people, especially the elderly, may choose to stay home rather than venture out in the cold, missing out on social activities like coffee hour or card games. Driving in harsh winter conditions can also spike anxiety: “What if my car breaks down when it’s below zero? What if I get snowed in at work?” While it’s important to travel safely, it’s equally important to challenge the irrational thoughts that anxiety can create.
Is it normal to feel isolated or depressed during the winter months?
Yes! Cold temperatures and shorter daylight hours can lead to low motivation, fatigue, and less interest in activities. While cozy nights on the couch sound appealing, making them a nightly routine can negatively impact mental health. Winter can also bring feelings of loneliness, especially after the holidays or among reminders of being alone that Valentine’s Day can bring.
How can I connect with others when it’s hard to go outside?
- Phone calls or video chats with friends and family
- Online gaming or Facebook interest-based groups
- Virtual volunteering (tutoring or mentoring)
- Online classes or workshops
Going online is a great way to connect but be sure to be careful. Connect with people you already know; but have safe boundaries when trying to make new connections.
Why is it important to make mental health a priority in winter?
Mental health matters year-round, but bad habits can sneak in during winter without us noticing. Just like applying sunscreen in summer to prevent sunburn, we need to apply self-care in winter to avoid the Winter Blues.
Quick Tips for Winter Wellness
- Stay socially connected, even virtually.
- Get outside when possible for fresh air and sunlight.
- Keep a routine that includes movement and hobbies.
- Reach out if you’re feeling isolated, connection is key!
January 2026:
South Dakota Human Services Center Mental Health Memo: Gretchen Stai and Shaina Smykle.
Gretchen Stai.
Courtesy photo.
Shaina Smykle.
Courtesy photo.
Better Ways to Feel Better & Celebrate National Hobby Month!
The start of the new year is the perfect time to reflect on how we care for ourselves, especially when life gets stressful. January is National Hobby Month, and it’s a great reminder that finding healthy, enjoyable activities can be one of the best ways to feel better and build resilience.
Why It’s Important to Find Better Ways to Feel Better
When under stress it’s tempting to reach for quick fixes which are things that offer temporary relief, but don’t truly help in the long run. This can include substances, but also habits like excessive screen time, nonstop scrolling, emotional spending, gaming for hours, or other behaviors that help us escape rather than cope. While these might feel good in the moment, they often leave us feeling more stressed, disconnected, or stuck afterward. Choosing healthier coping strategies can lead to lasting well-being and a more fulfilling life. These choices help us bounce back from tough situations and build emotional strength over time.
Healthy Alternatives That Work
There are many ways to feel better that don’t involve substances. Try:
- Spending time outdoors
- Exercising or stretching
- Listening to uplifting music
- Calling or spending time with a friend
- Practicing breathing or mindfulness exercises
Need more ideas? Take the quiz at letsbeclearsd.com/better to discover new ways to feel better!
How Hobbies Help Us Heal
Hobbies are more than just fun; they’re powerful tools for recovery and resilience. When cravings or urges arise to escape or fall back into unhealthy patterns, having a hobby can provide a healthy distraction and stress. Hobbies also offer a sense of accomplishment, creativity, and personal growth, which can be deeply rewarding.
Finding the Right Hobby for You
The best hobby is one that feels good and fits your lifestyle. Consider:
- Physical activities: walking, yoga, dancing
- Creative outlets: painting, writing, photography
- Relaxing practices: gardening, reading, journaling
- Skill-building hobbies: cooking, learning a language, DIY projects
Avoid hobbies that put you in unhealthy environments or encourage habits you are trying to change. What matters most is that your hobby supports your well-being and brings you joy.
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