Teaching is most certainly a noble profession. However, we would be lying if we say that it does not come with its own share of stress. Grading tests & assignments, classroom management, matching expectations, all of this can be taxing and overwhelming. It is pivotal to take care of yourself and make mental health your priority. You will not be able to give your best unless and until you take care of your mental health. Mental Health Day is just around the corner (Oct 10) and let's take a look at some effective mental health tips for teachers.
“Sadly, too often, the stigma around mental health prevents people who need help from seeking it. We don’t consider taking medication for an ear infection something to be ashamed of. We shouldn’t treat mental health conditions any differently. Instead, we should make it clear that getting help isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of strength, and we should ensure that people can get the treatment they need.” - Michelle Obama
If you are facing any issue, there’s no need to be ashamed of it. We are all human and it is human to fall sick. Mental illness is just another disease and there’s no stigma associated with it. As teachers, you might be facing problems like people trivializing the work that you do, belittling your sacrifices, and likewise. These can take a toll on you and here are some mental health tips for teachers.
Mental Health Tips for Teachers
We have mentioned a few mental health tips for teachers. Put this into practice and you will be able to see a marked difference. Having said that, it is of paramount importance to get help when you need it. Talk to a professional, voice out your concerns and
1.Educate Yourself
More often than not, people do not realize that they have a mental health issue. The symptoms are overlooked. This is why it is important to educate yourself about mental health. You can read blogs, watch videos, connect with therapists, etc. to learn more about the same. Ensure that you are depending on trustworthy channels to educate yourself. Get rid of the labels attached to you and focus on your mental wellbeing.
2. Inculcate a Growth Mindset
What does it mean to have a growth mindset? Having a growth mindset is about believing that one’s character, behavior, qualities, skills, and the like can be constantly improved. None of these are static. A growth mindset is believing that one can improve themselves, it thrives on challenges and is not afraid of failure. It is important to understand that failure is not a sign of weakness or does not indicate that you are incapable of succeeding. You just need to work on yourself and grow.
3. Set Reasonable Expectations
As important as pushing boundaries & facing challenges is setting achievable goals. While it is important to try new things and push yourself, you must also understand how much you can handle and set expectations accordingly. Take it slow and grow gradually. Improvement does not happen overnight. Give yourself ample time.
4. Take Time out for Yourself
Do not prioritize work over yourself. Take some time out, do the things that you love. It might be listening to music, munching on your favorite snack, going for a walk, dancing, or just staring at a wall! No matter how small it seems, spend some time for yourself and by yourself. This will help your mind to relax and get rejuvenated.
5. Get Moving
Include some physical activity in your daily routine. It could be a five-minute brisk walk or a run or some yoga to calm your mind. You can include any activity that you want but the point is to be engaged in some physical activity or the other. This will help release the stress and relax your mind.
At the first sign of anxiety or burnout or anything that is upsetting your mental wellbeing, reach out to someone and seek help. You can ace your role as a teacher only when you feel at ease. It is important to be in your best shape to be able to perform well. Stay calm, hydrate, and take care!
Happy Teaching!!
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