Teaching can be a wonderfully rewarding occupation as change and growth are observed in students. However, teaching can exact a high price if teachers suffer anxiety, exhaustion, and even depression through the school year. Instead of struggling with the ability to maintain good mental health, new teachers need to incorporate strategies which help them feel the joy of the profession rather than suffer in silence.
Here a few tips to help maintain your mental health:
- Put it in perspective. Recognize the good aspects of life and retain hope for the future.
- Get time away. If you feel the stress building, take a break. Walk away from the situation or take some deep breaths.
- Engage in activities such as physical exercise, sports, or hobbies that can relieve stress and anxiety.
- Strengthen connections with family and friends who can provide emotional support.
- Talk it out. Sometimes the best stress-reducer is simply sharing your stress with someone close to you. The act of talking it out and getting support and empathy from someone else is often an excellent way of blowing off steam and reducing stress. Have a support system of trusted people.
- Cultivate allies at work. Just knowing you have one or more co-workers who are willing to assist you in times of stress will reduce your stress level. Just remember to reciprocate and help them when they are in need.
- Find humor in the situation. When you or the people around you start taking things too seriously, find a way to break through with laughter. Share a joke or funny story.
- Have realistic expectations for yourself and those around you.
- Realize nobody is perfect. We learn from overcoming obstacles.
- Maintain a positive attitude and learn to reward yourself for little accomplishments.
If you find yourself sinking into depression or you need help with mental health issues, JSD insurance in partnership with Blomquist Hale is your professional resource. Call them for confidential and professional help. It is free of charge for you and eligible dependents.
Bloomquist Hale Employee Assistance
| Contact Information: | What They Can Help With: |
| Salt Lake City: 801-262-9619 Provo/Orem: 801-225-9222 Ogden: 801-392-6833 Other Locations 801-926-9619 or 24/7 Crisis Services |
Stress, Anxiety or Depression Relationship & Family Problems Grief or Loss Work-Related Issues Personal & Emotional Changes Senior Care, Planning & Support Substance Abuse & Addictions Financial or Legal Challenges |