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The role of the social worker in perinatal substance-abuse
1Shands Hospital, University of Florida, USA.
Insights
Perinatal substance use impacts many families, affecting maternal and neonatal health. Social workers play a vital role in supporting treatment for this widespread issue.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Social Work
- Maternal-Child Health
Background:
- Perinatal substance use affects 10-15% of the population.
- The exact causality between substance use and adverse outcomes is complex, potentially linked to socioeconomic and mental health factors.
- Significant negative impacts on maternal well-being and neonatal outcomes, alongside high societal costs, are evident.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the significant impact of perinatal substance use on maternal and neonatal health.
- To underscore the importance of social workers in the treatment of perinatal substance use.
- To address the growing attention on this public health issue.
Main Methods:
- This study is a review of the literature on perinatal substance use.
- It examines the relationship between substance use and maternal/neonatal outcomes.
- It discusses the role of social workers in multidisciplinary treatment teams.
Main Results:
- Perinatal substance use has profound effects on maternal and infant health.
- Associated factors like poverty, violence, and depression complicate the issue.
- The societal cost of perinatal substance use is substantial.
Conclusions:
- Perinatal substance use presents a major public health challenge with severe consequences.
- Multidisciplinary approaches are crucial for effective treatment and support.
- The role of social workers is critical in addressing the complexities of perinatal substance use.
Abstract:
Perinatal substance use affects approximately 10-15% of the population at any given time. Although it is not completely clear whether perinatal substance use is the cause of poor outcomes or a result of related factors such as poverty, environmental deprivation, violence in the home, or depression, the impact on maternal well-being and neonatal outcomes is enormous and the cost to society high. As this issue continues to receive state and national attention, the role for social workers as essential members of the treatment team is increasingly important.