LEWISTON – St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center and the National Association of Social Workers have announced the kickoff of National Social Work Month during March.

This year’s theme, “Life’s Journey: Help Starts Here,” focuses on how social workers help people at every stage of life while promoting dignity for everyone, especially the most vulnerable.

To mark the month, St. Mary’s will host a presentation by David Prichard, Ph.D., from the University of New England. Prichard will talk about a social worker’s experience with secondary trauma.

The workshop, to be held from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Friday, March 24, at the Lepage Conference Center, will explore how to assess a social worker’s traumatic reactions to work with trauma survivors and how to develop skills and coping strategies for self-care.

To register, call 753-5465. The cost is $25 for social workers and $15 for students.

“The Graying of America’ and the lengthening of life spans put new pressures on individuals and their families,” said association President Elvira Craig de Silva. “Social workers have the specialized knowledge and expertise to address these pressures. They strive to promote independence, autonomy and dignity for their clients.”

Social workers help families deal with the stress of placing loved ones in nursing homes and assisted living communities. They refer family members to support groups and encourage them to participate in care plan meetings.

Social Work Month also provides an opportunity for social workers to highlight the essential role they play in alleviating some of America’s most difficult problems.

Through education, training and dedication, social workers provide assistance in many practice areas including health, mental health, child welfare, end of life, adolescent health, HIV/AIDS and family violence.

To find comprehensive information about the role of social work and where to go for assistance for these and other issues, visit www.HelpStartsHere.org.