Teaching is an intensive occupation. It requires a great deal of time, commitment, and care. On top of the expected responsibilities, educators are also faced with a multitude of job-related stressors. From insufficient resources and excessive working hours to a stressful political atmosphere, the things teachers have to deal with day in and day out add up to an emotionally taxing environment. In fact, this elevated amount of stress is leading to significant levels of burnout and even weakened physical and emotional health. The result is high turnover and a severe teacher shortage across the country. What can be done to combat burnout? Often, it begins by addressing the stressors of the job and initiating systemic change; however, more and more teachers are being encouraged to practice self-care and mindfulness while at school and after hours. Self-care in teaching is about taking steps to be the best educators they can be for themselves and their students. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, it encompasses six elements: physical, psychological, emotional, spiritual, social, and professional. An ideal self-care strategy would include an activity to address every one of these factors each day. To learn more about the ways in which teachers are taking care of themselves during the school year, read on to the infographic accompanying this post.
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