May
Advice For Schools, Safeguarding
Top 10 Tips for Teacher Stress
It’s no secret that stress and anxiety amongst teachers in the UK is a prominent and growing issue – as highlighted in Education Support’s recent Teacher Wellbeing Index.
And whilst there is no one-size-fits-all solution, there are several ways in which teachers can lessen the pressure on themselves – from remembering the difference you’re making, to scheduling in time to switch off, we’ve compiled a list of top tips for teachers looking to manage stress levels.
1. Remember the difference you are making.
You are doing a great job and having an impact on the children you teach. This is invaluable.
2. Talk to those around you – and not just about school.
Discuss your interests and things that make you happy.
3. Schedule time to switch off.
Although much easier said than done, take time for you! Read, sleep, draw or anything that you enjoy.
4. Breathe (properly).
Use deep breaths to re-centre yourself. Use the 4×4 technique to regulate your heart rate and resettle your mind. Breathe in and hold for 4 seconds, and do the same breathing out.
5. Say goodbye to perfectionism.
Teachers are master ‘jugglers’ but you cannot give your all to everything. List your priorities and focus on those that really need your time and attention.
6. Accept what you cannot change.
Try to learn from your experiences and don’t waste your emotional energy on things outside of your control. Forgive yourself for things that have happened in the past.
7. Stay energized.
Make time to eat a healthy balanced diet, this will keep you going throughout the day. And biscuits don’t count!
8. Banish negative thoughts.
If you catch yourself thinking negatively or talking unkindly to yourself – re-phrase and force yourself to think of something to make you smile instead.
9. Practice gratitude.
Find a positive in each and every work day – no matter how small. Visualise things that have gone well and harness that positive feeling to help you cope in trickier times.
10. Finally… Ask for help.
You do not have to do this alone. If things are too much or you feel overwhelmed, talk to your colleagues and school leaders. Something can always be done to help.
Summary
Whilst we know that being a teacher in the current climate can often feel overwhelming, it is important to remember the huge difference you are making to the lives of the children you teach.
You can find more useful resources and browse our Mental Health and Wellbeing courses here.
About the Author
Lucie Welch – Adviser, Services For Education
Lucie Welch has worked in Primary Education for over 15 years, holding a range of leadership positions including Assistant Headteacher, Designated Safeguarding Lead, Attendance Lead and Designated Teacher for Looked After Children. Having worked across several local authorities and multi-academy trusts, Lucie has developed extensive expertise in safeguarding and supporting children and young people to thrive both academically and personally.
At Services For Education, Lucie is a member of the Safeguarding Team, working with schools, colleges, trusts and other educational settings across Birmingham and beyond. She delivers statutory safeguarding and training, supports organisations through safeguarding audits and reviews and works collaboratively with leaders to strengthen safeguarding culture and practice.
Alongside her safeguarding work, Lucie leads the impactful Health for Life programme across Birmingham, supporting schools to promote healthy lifestyles, wellbeing and positive outcomes for pupils, families and wider communities. Drawing on her extensive school leadership experience, she also contributes to teacher development through her previous work with the SCITT programme and as a facilitator of the Early Career Framework (ECF), supporting trainee and Early Career Teachers to build the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for successful careers in education.
Mental Health Support For Schools
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