Taking care of our children and students are paramount, however should we start caring for the people who are mentoring, developing and nurturing our next generation? Teachers should not be feeling guilty or any kind of shame for paying attention to their own well-being. This year alone, there has been a steep rise in educational staff contacting services detailing severe mental health issues.
A proactive approach is required
The government seems to be reactive to mental health, rather than proactive. Maybe a preventative measure should be brought in, such as counselling, to ensure that all educators get the help they need before stress and worry turns into an aspect of trauma. So many teaching staff leave the sector because of stress, workload or behaviour, if these can be reduced in any way, this would reduce overall mental health issues throughout the country.
There are many schools out there that provide the help and support that staff need, if you are struggling in your current school and not feeling appreciated, maybe it is time for a change?