A recent study by Education Support, a mental health charity, painted a concerning picture: teacher wellbeing is at an all-time low. Stress, insomnia, and burnout are on the rise, with a significant increase from 2017 to 2023. Behind these numbers lies a deeper issue affecting the mental health of those who dedicate themselves to educating our children.
“The pressures of the job are taking a toll on teachers across the country,” says Sinéad Mc Brearty, the head of Education Support. “There are a lot of people who really are just broken by this career. And it’s such a terribly sad thing. Because they go into this job with such a clear sense of purpose, and they really are wanting to make the world a better place.”
A survey conducted by the NASUWT union highlighted distressing findings, including reports of teachers driven to the point of suicide. Among the 12,000 teachers surveyed, alarming trends emerged, indicating a growing reliance on unhealthy coping mechanisms like increased alcohol consumption, antidepressants, and even self-harm.
In the face of such challenges, it’s crucial to explore avenues of support available to teachers struggling with their mental health. One such resource is counselling, which can provide a safe space for teachers to explore their feelings and develop coping strategies.
Private counselling services offer confidential support tailored to individual needs. These sessions provide an opportunity for teachers to address the underlying issues contributing to their mental health struggles and work towards solutions in a supportive environment.
Additionally, many workplaces offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which provide access to counselling services as part of employee benefits. EAPs typically offer confidential counselling sessions either in person, over the phone, or online, allowing teachers to seek support conveniently and discreetly.
EAPs often cover a wide range of issues beyond mental health, including financial and legal concerns, further expanding the support available to teachers facing various challenges in their personal and professional lives.
By acknowledging the mental health crisis among teachers and providing accessible support through avenues like private counselling and EAPs, we can take meaningful steps towards alleviating their burden and promoting overall wellbeing within the education sector. It’s imperative that we prioritize the mental health of our educators, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to navigate the challenges of their profession.
