Teaching is one of the most rewarding, yet demanding, professions in the world. Every day, teachers are faced with the challenge of providing their students with the best education possible, while also managing the stresses that come with the job.
According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, teachers report higher levels of stress than people in most other professions. The same research shows that teachers who experience high levels of stress are more likely to experience physical and mental health problems, such as depression and burnout.
To help teachers manage their stress, here are ten ways to limit the amount of stress they feel during a term:
- Prioritize self-care: Make sure to take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. This may include getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and taking time for exercise.
- Set boundaries: Don’t let work consume your entire life. Set aside time for yourself and your family, and stick to it.
- Manage time effectively: Create a schedule that works for you and stick to it. This will help you stay on top of your workload and reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.
- Find a support system: Reach out to other teachers or professionals for support. Having someone to talk to can make a big difference when it comes to managing stress.
- Stay organized: Keep a to-do list and use it to stay organized. This will help you keep track of your tasks and reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.
- Take breaks: Step away from your work every once in a while. Whether it’s a quick walk around the block or a few minutes of meditation, taking a break can help you recharge and come back to your work feeling refreshed.
- Learn to say no: It’s easy to take on too much when you’re a teacher, but it’s important to know your limits and not take on more than you can handle.
- Set realistic expectations: It’s essential to set realistic expectations for yourself and your students. Avoid setting expectations that are too high, which can lead to feelings of disappointment and failure.
- Stay positive: Try to stay positive and maintain a sense of perspective. Remember that you are making a difference in the lives of your students.
- Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is the act of being present in the moment. Incorporating mindfulness practices, like deep breathing and guided meditations, can help you reduce stress and improve focus.
According to a recent study by the University of California Berkeley and the University of Minnesota in 2019, teacher’s stress caused by the workload and administrative burden resulted in 63% of teachers quitting in the first 5 years. Another study from The American Federation of Teachers conducted in 2020 states that nearly 60% of teachers report that their jobs are always or often stressful, while 70% report that their jobs have negatively impacted their well-being. These statistics shows the importance of taking care of teachers mental health by creating a stress-free environment.
It’s important to remember that stress is a natural part of life, and it’s not always possible to eliminate it completely. However, by implementing some of the strategies mentioned above, teachers can take steps to minimize their stress levels and improve their overall well-being.
