Associate Professor of Social Work Sean Joe. Photo courtesy of the University of Michigan.

African-American male adolescents suffering from depression are more likely to seek help from family than go to mental health professionals, according to a study from social work experts at the University of Michigan, the University of Maryland and Howard University.

“African-American adolescent boys underutilize mental health service due to stigma associated with depression,” said Sean Joe, associate professor of social work and assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Michigan.

The study shows social networks may play an important role in lowering depression symptoms among this demographic group.

To learn more about how social workers help teenagers cope with life challenges, visit the National Association of Social Workers “Help Starts Here” Youth Development Web page by clicking here.

Photo Courtesy of ABC

Pop Star Rihanna recently appeared in an  interview on ABC’s “20-20″ and ”Good Morning America” to discuss the violence she experienced at the hands of fellow singer and ex-boyfriend Chris Brown. Click here to watch the interview.

Social workers are at the forefront in helping domestic violence victims and educating the public about  the issue.

Question: Do you think Rihanna’ s willingness to speak out will help other domestic violence victims come forward, especially teenagers and young adults? Please leave your comments below.

The film “Precious” puts a spotlight on many issues social workers confront, including family violence, child abuse, HIV and AIDS and teen pregnancy.

Social workers also play an important role in the gut-wrenching film, which premieres Friday Nov. 6. In fact, pop singer Mariah Carey sheds her diva image to portray “Mrs. Weiss,” a social worker who tries to help the troubled teenager Claireece “Precious” Jones.

But is the film’s portrayal of social workers fair? Do you handle some of the some issues depicted in the movie? “Social Workers Speak” urges you to see “Precious” and let us know what you think. You can post your comments below.

And we can tell you how to reach out to your community and local media to let give them your opinion on “Precious” and its depiction of social work.

How to React to Film:
Are you pleased with how the film “Precious” portrayed social workers or are you upset? If you want to contact your local newspaper, radio or television station to voice your opinion about the gut-wrenching movie, contact Greg Wright at the National Association of Social Workers (GWright@naswdc.org). Greg can give you tips on how to get involved.

How to Find Film:
According to the press, Lionsgate studios will give “Precious” a limited theater release. Is the film playing near you? Go to www.precioustickets.com to find theaters showing the movie and buy tickets.

Check out other links on www.socialworkersspeak.org:

Michigan Social Workers Protest Layoffs

University of Pittsburgh Journal Examines Race, Social Issues

Social Work: Low Pay, High Stress