If you are a teacher heading back to the classroom, here is something you can do to look out for your own mental health:

Put Your Needs First

Teachers tend to be the kind of people who always put their students’ – and other people’s – needs first. But now is the time to put your needs first, so you have the energy and mental clarity to give to your students throughout the rest of the year. Ask yourself, “What do I need to feel my best so I can be an effective and supportive teacher?”

Adjust Your Expectations

Everyone has been changed by Covid. You can’t expect yourself or anyone else to be the person they were before lockdowns. When you feel yourself judging yourself too harshly, try and adjust your expectations.

Talk to Someone

If your feelings of anxiety, depression, or burnout don’t subside, even with making some adjustments to your life, then it’s important that you speak to someone. A psychiatrist can help you work through the stress and emotions you have dealt with and maybe hold on to. They can also provide coping strategies so you may get back to living a joyful life.

If you or someone you know is a teacher whose mental health has been affected by the Covid pandemic, please reach out to me. I would be happy to discuss treatment options with you.

SOURCES:

​​https://www.edweek.org/leadership/teachers-mental-health-has-suffered-in-the-pandemic-heres-how-districts-can-help/2021

https://www.kaplanco.com/ii/mental-health-effects-on-educators

https://www.unicef.org/eca/stories/ten-mental-health-and-well-being-tips-teachers