Just wondering if anyone has some strategies to get past Teacher burnout? I have been a public high school teacher for over 10 years and now working part time. I have 4 children, one in therapy and most likely has asd, one with adhd and the two little ones are 3 and 4 and with me on my days off. The staff I work with are amazing and I generally have respectful students, so not sure why I find everyday so hard to get to work, once I am at work I'm fine but I have so much anxiety and negative thoughts in the mornings. My husband works over 80 hours a week and at nights I spend hours preparing, planning, marking or answering work emails, so often go to bed way too late. So not sure if it is Teacher burnout or just overwhelmed with life? Any strategies to get past this phase, I've used up all my sick leave even though I haven't been physically sick.
Teacher Burnout
Teacher Burnout
Posted in:
Mental Health, Anxiety & Depression, Self Care, Parenthood Guilt, Health & Wellbeing
3 Replies
I work an hour before and an hour after work maximum and that is all. There will be some times where I plan or mark on weekends but it is ok to disconnect and take your time off. If it can’t be done then it can’t be done and the thing with teaching is that you can do way too much there is no limit on it, you have to set yourself a way to do the bare minimum and then cap yourself on what else you are willing to do.
Research shows that having a regular hobby that is separate from your work and personal demands, particularly a new one, has a really positive impact on overall well-being. It significantly reduces burnout in professionals.
Set clear boundaries for yourself. Do not reply to emails after a certain time. Take them off your phone.
Set a day or two where you don’t pick up your computer. We can literally never get through our checklist. Only do what you need to.
Think about putting the 3 & 4 year old in day care for the day or half day while you’re home.
This shit is tough and only getting tougher, your feelings are valid. I also take some natural sleep tablets and put on a guided meditation at night to help me switch off. Recently I have found a family friendly womens bootcamp that I have started going to. Remember teaching is your JOB not your life.