Last week's post was dedicated to Mental Health Day, focusing mostly on students. Nevertheless, this week I have been thinking a lot about how much teachers are affected by stress and depression. I did not want to write about another pessimist topic, but after reading some articles I just could not leave it.
On Monday I started my new job as a digital content editor, and getting used to the new routine of work and classes has been tough. I knew this would be an exhausting academic year, and of course, I am ready to do my best. But later I started thinking about how many people get burnout because of their jobs. Teachers are the most affected by it. It could be because of the lack of attention they receive from their students or the number of extra hours they spend preparing their classes and grading exams.
The World Health Organization describes burn-out syndrome as "chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed". It is characterized by "feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion, increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job and reduced professional efficacy". The burn-out syndrome is a very serious condition that can lead to depression. Thus, it is vital to be aware of all the symptoms in the early stages.
In order to avoid burnout syndrome, teachers need to balance their professional and personal life. Also, teachers have to set boundaries in their schedules: for example, working until a certain hour, not working on Sundays, etc. Also, relaxing activities and hobbies are a great measure to fight this syndrome.
Teachers have to be guides for students. Therefore, they have to take care of their mental wellness.
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