Summer 2025 Issue

Editor’s Note: This Whole World
By Josh Hildebrand
Social Work Today
Vol. 25 No. 3 P. 4

The world seems to be in a state of upheaval. With current events, everything feels quite intense. Seeking balance is vital for such times—taking a peaceful walk to enjoy the remaining days of the warmer months. Spending time with friends and loved ones can be quite curative during emotionally complex bouts. Unplugging is also advised. It’s far too easy these days to get swept up in a current of “bad news” and wind up doomscrolling for hours on end, ruminating on issues one cannot control. This issue explores these feelings, whether it be mental health among homeless individuals in Michigan, the difficulties of being a child with mentally ill parents, or the role of technology in social work practice.

Keeping in line with the previous sentiment, Sue Coyle discusses America’s political divide in her feature. Politics has a tendency to leap off the page or screen, disrupting spaces meant for family members and friends. Social workers understand the political tension between individuals with differing views and highlight numerous ways in which connections can be fostered to preserve peace and relationships.

A topic that remains a pivotal point of contention and discussion is that of AI—how does its use impact the various vital avenues of health care? This is especially relevant when it comes to social work. How can social workers leverage AI to further aid clients and communities while protecting their privacy? As AI continues to advance, and more tools become available not only to those in the health care field but social workers, it’s important they understand said tools. Heather Rose Artushin discusses this in “AI-Powered Social Work Training.”

In her feature on the rise of online misogyny, Jamie Santa Cruz delves into how the extremely controversial “manosphere” radicalizes young men into blaming their disenfranchisement on women, and how this dangerous corner of the internet seems to be targeting a younger audience.

Finally, Miriam Edelman discusses suicidality among autistic individuals and how social workers can look out for this vulnerable population.

As always, enjoy the issue.

— Josh Hildebrand
jhildebrand@gvpub.com