Working as a Personal Support Worker has taught me more about humanity than any classroom ever could. It has shown me tenderness, resilience, and the quiet strength that lives in people who are often overlooked. But it has also revealed a harder truth—one that many PSWs know all too well. Sometimes, despite our dedication, we are not treated fairly.
The Emotional Labor No One Sees
PSWs are the hands that steady someone’s steps, the voice that reassures them in moments of fear, and often the only consistent presence in a client’s day. Yet the depth of this work is not always acknowledged. People see the tasks—bathing, feeding, transferring, tidying—but they don’t always see the emotional weight behind them.
When this emotional labor goes unnoticed, it can feel as though the heart of our work is invisible.
Time, Workload, and the Hidden Sacrifices
Many PSWs work long, unpredictable hours, often with unpaid gaps between clients. In home care especially, we may spend more time traveling than providing care, yet that travel time is rarely compensated. We rush from home to home, giving our best even when our bodies are tired and our schedules are stretched thin.
It’s a quiet sacrifice—one the world doesn’t always see.
Respect and Misunderstanding of the Role
While many families are grateful, there are times when we encounter unrealistic expectations or dismissive attitudes. Some people misunderstand our role, assuming we are “just helpers” rather than trained professionals with knowledge, skill, and responsibility.
Over time, this kind of treatment wears on the spirit.
Safety Should Never Be Optional
PSWs often work alone, entering unfamiliar environments or caring for clients with complex needs. We face physical risks, emotional strain, and unpredictable situations without immediate support. When employers fail to provide adequate training or backup, it leaves us vulnerable.
Our safety should never be an afterthought.
A Call for Fairness
Despite these challenges, PSWs continue to show up with compassion, patience, and dedication. But compassion should not be mistaken for endless endurance. Fair treatment is not a luxury—it is a necessity.
When PSWs are treated fairly, everyone benefits—clients, families, communities, and the healthcare system as a whole.
We give so much of ourselves. It’s time the world gives us the fairness and respect we deserve.
Call‑to‑Action
If this message resonates with you—whether you’re a PSW, a family caregiver, or someone who believes in fairness—share this post with others. Start a conversation. Advocate for better treatment. And if you’re a fellow PSW, I invite you to share your own experiences in the comments. Your voice matters, and together, we can shine a light on the reality of our work and push for the respect we all deserve.
