3 Tips For the Stressed Educator
As we recognize Stress Awareness Month this April, this time of year is also when educators are getting ready to finish out the school year. With activities, standardized testing, and celebrations coming up it can be hard to manage stress. In fact, more than three in four teachers reported frequent job-related stress, compared to 40% of other working adults. Perhaps even more alarming: 27% of teachers reported symptoms of depression, compared to 10% of other adults. So teachers, here are some tips/reminders to take with you as we wrap this semester up!
Slow Down. It's already April. We’re getting close to finishing half of 2023 and so many things have taken place this year already. Remember as this season comes to a close to remain present. You’re in a race with no one and you’re in a competition with anyone either. Some tips to slow down can include, putting the cell phone away for a bit, focusing on the people in front of you, making time and space for fun, and practicing being in silence. Here is also a guided Meditation that can help you to slow down HERE
Make Time For Hobbies. Being an educator, you can oftentimes forget about the things you used to enjoy doing when you had more time. What was that thing that made you happy? What was the video game you used to play? The project that made you feel fulfilled? It’s time to get back to that friend. You make time for everything and everyone else in your life, it’s time to focus on yourself and your interests.
Talk about your problems. This season, we know educators are prone to depression and anxiety in addition to stress. These internal issues need to be talked about and expressed so that they are not harboring in your brain. If you have a teacher friend you can confide in, ask them for grace and space to share how you feel. Additionally, If you do have a therapist, speak to them about your stress.
Educators—we hear you, see you, and are listening to you. This month make sure to prioritize self so you can be the best YOU you can be. You got this!!