Community workers need community too!

Hey! I am Tomek from Poland. I am a young professional, I struggle with anxiety and I am also a volunteer as a youth activist for Euro Youth Mental Health. Earlier in 2020 I attended a webinar of the World Health Organization (WHO) on the topic of ‘Engaging our communities in the well being of the health and care workforce’ and this is my #mentalreport of the event.

The main objective was to share experiences on the workforces in community organizations.
It was discussed that within Covid-19 situation, economic trauma has been left in communities that will be felt for years. There is not enough resources to prevent community organizers from burn-out and consequently leaving behind all the vulnerable groups (e.g. minors, homeless people) on their own.

Current economic situation in Europe does not provide enough opportunities for future community workers to perform well in the sector and maintain themselves financially. In many countries social work is still not recognized as a key profession, therefore it leaves a lot of space to question my financial stability and job security.

To be a community worker and support young people with mental health problems is a mission, but as humans we are unable to perform well if our basic living needs are not being covered. There is not much support given by the government in Poland to support initiatives in the social and cultural sector, especially in the uncertain times this pandemic. The reality paints a brutal picture, and because of this may have to be more willing to dedicate my time on the professional activities in the business sector to be considered a more stable workplace.

It is essential for me, as a young person struggling with anxiety to feel secure and protected in my life. The current situation in the economic market gives us a warning on how community work is conceptualized by society. It is time to decide which path should be taken to provide more stable working conditions for each and every individual involved in the social work.

I still live in hope of living in a world in which my inner fears will not dictate how I should live my life.

Tomek