How can teachers talk more openly about their mental health?
Yesterday, I had the pleasure of attending Education Forward in Leeds, a movement for changing the way we view, and talk about, educational reform. The original group believes that the public debate about education in the UK is backwards-looking, polarised, and focused on the wrong priorities. Read our manifesto.
As a result of our collaboration, we published this book in less than 3 months and have made a pledge to take control of the education debate. In the future, I
Well said, seeking support for mental wellbeing is a sign of strength not weakness.
And often physical ailments are manifestations of inner turmoil.
Wishing you all a relaxing half term
I had an infection in both corneas the day the call came and through my inspection
Got through it just then had lie in a dark room for a week on medication
It was my first year of Headship
Have had a focus on reducing workload for all
We all need to look after each other
Happy holidays
Sorry to hear this – it’s just not right that a job such a teaching, causes this much anxiety from a 1-2 day inspection.
Happy holidays.
The pressure meant I left the whole profession. It’s not just the hours, but the pressure. Being constantly ON is something that just is not acceptable for extended hours.
It is certainly not sustainable for everyone in the long term. Was it anything specific that pushed your limit?
Given facebook this week, sick of half term holiday photos ….
I’m T1 diabetic-in my experience there’s not much time for physical illness either. I’ve been T1 since I was 4 and testing, eating, balancing can make teaching days difficult. A lot of T1s choose not to work. Respect for others, whatever differences exist is vital in all areas of life. I’m glad mental health is getting a higher priority but all areas need understanding.
It’s been a roller coaster year, I’ve been having night terrors, anxiety attacks and I don’t know what restful sleep is any more. The lack of support at school, the gruelling scrutiny it’s all too much. That and I’m considered a young teacher 32 y/o and got my PGCE just 5 years ago. I don’t want to walk out yet because this profession is my passion it’s what I wanted to do since I was 17! Not sure how long I can handle this, but I’m soldiering through and I will keep talking about my struggles because it does help. Teaching has become a high stakes profession and I’m so glad there are people like you spreading the awareness in all sincerity and objectivity. Thanks Ross.
Thanks for your message – it is very easy to think one is alone, but with thanks to social media we can connect and share our stories, even those we wish to hide away or throw under the carpet. Sometimes moving to a new school or context works e.g. PRU. I met a teacher last week who nearly left after 10 years… but moved to a PRU and is happy and thriving. It was wonderful to see him in his classroom really ‘becoming free’ in his subject area.