In this powerful episode, we sit down with Melissa Ifill, LCSW, for an honest, eye-opening conversation about social work burnout—what it really looks like, how we often contribute to it ourselves and what it takes to start breaking the cycle.
We explore the signs of burnout in social workers, why it's so common in helping professions and how critical self-reflection and boundary setting are in sustaining a long-term, healthy career in social work—especially for Black and BIPOC social workers.
If you’ve ever felt emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed or like you're giving from an empty cup, this episode is for you.
🎧 Tune in to learn:
- What burnout actually feels like in practice
- How social workers unintentionally reinforce burnout culture
- Real strategies for reclaiming your energy and your purpose
Don’t forget to check out Melissa Ifill’s work:
📲 IG: @melissaifilllcsw
🌐 Websites: melissaifill.com and reflecting-joy.com
Social workers of color face immense challenges—systemic racism, underfunding, and overwhelming caseloads. They work tirelessly to support others but often lack the support they need. That’s why we created the Queens of Social Work Podcast—a lifeline and safe space for social workers of color to vent, share, laugh, and find the resources they need to thrive.
The QOSW Daily Journal and our Royally You Interactive Journal for yourself will help you get all of your thoughts out and reflect on what’s next for you. For all of the budding social workers and those wanting to know more about social work in a healthcare setting, check out our Guide for ER Social Workers also for sale on Amazon and go to our website queensofsocialwork.net for your queens of social work merch! It makes a great gift.
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