Despite increasing job satisfaction among teachers, the RAND Corp., a nonpartisan research organization, survey reveals they’re still twice as likely to experience job-related stress as other working adults. The prevalent stressors include managing student behavior, dealing with political intrusions in teaching, and concerns over physical safety at school. These challenges highlight the urgent need for focused interventions, including self-care, professional development, and better mental health support.
It’s essential to understand that this burnout is not a sign of inadequacy. Instead, it’s a clear indicator of the high levels of commitment and dedication educators bring to their roles.
With the summer offering an opportune time to refocus energy inward, activities like meditation and yoga are not just trends, they’re essential tools for promoting mental well-being. And remember, seeking professional help when feelings of anxiety or depression become overwhelming is not a sign of weakness, but strength.
This period also enables personal growth through professional development. This isn’t about becoming a “better” educator but reconnecting with what fuels your love for education and learning.
While the study indicates improvements in well-being, teachers’ stress levels and reports of depression still overshadow those of the general population of employed adults. Although three-quarters of teachers reportedly have access to mental health support, nearly half find these provisions inadequate due to lack of class coverage or insufficient paid leave.
Supporting our teachers’ mental health and job satisfaction is essential for an effective educational system. By addressing these challenges, we can help shape our future generations without the looming threat of burnout.
Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup—summer is the time to refill it.
Online Resources
Some resources to support self-care for both yourself and your students include:
- The Tapping Solution: If you haven’t tried EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), you should! It’s based on the combined principles of ancient Chinese acupressure and modern psychology. There is an app for ease of use and a dedicated space for teachers and students.
- Calm: This app offers a vast array of mindfulness exercises, sleep stories, calming music, and guided meditations to help manage stress and promote relaxation. It’s a bonus that there’s a free trial for educators and students!
- Yoga With Adriene: Free online yoga lessons for all levels, a great resource for incorporating physical activity into your routine.
- Edutopia: A comprehensive resource for educators with plenty of articles and tips for self-care, classroom management, and professional development.
- BetterHelp: An online platform that connects individuals with licensed therapists for virtual counseling sessions.
- Zensational Kids: An organization with a focus of evidence-based mindfulness practices and techniques that foster the development of coping skills and self-regulation strategies.
AVID Open Access Resources
You can also find self-care resources here on AVID Open Access!
- “R” You Ready to Recharge? Tips for Teacher Self-Care (article)
- Remembering Your Why (podcast episode)
- The Power of Being Grateful With Cherie Spencer (podcast episode)
- Beginning and Sustaining a Career in Education With Kathy Koszegi (podcast episode)
- Mental Health (article collection)