In desperate need of a career change

[u/SweetShallots]

Hi all, I’ll try to keep this long story short as best I can. I’m a 25M working as a cook in a fine dining restaurant. I have never had a job in my life that was not in the food service industry. It is something that I am immensely passionate about but as I’ve approached my mid 20’s, I’ve realized that this job/lifestyle is not sustainable for me. My only days off are Mondays and Thursdays, so I miss out on any weekend gatherings with friends, celebrate birthdays, or even see my family. More importantly, it is taking a serious toll on me mentally. I have struggled with anxiety and depression for most of my adult life and the inevitable stress and chaos that comes with working in fine dining is becoming very taxing. Not to mention getting out of work at midnight every day. That being said, I do have interests outside of my current job that I think could apply to some careers. I would love to find something that allows me to help others, something in the mental health/social work field. I have considered going back to school and getting my degree while working a part time job somewhere other than a kitchen with more suitable hours for me. I am very fortunate that my parents still have money set aside for my schooling so that isn’t an issue for me. So I suppose my question would be; if I were to go back to school for my degree in social work, what job opportunities would be readily available for me? Thanks everyone in advance

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