Building resiliency before the school year starts

The summer break marks a period of substantial transition for both students and educators.

This break can disrupt students’ daily rhythms, potentially impacting their mental well-being. For educators, the reprieve of the summer break can help them reflect on their well-being and prepare for the next academic year.

Teachers in the United States often face numerous challenges, and most feel that their jobs are frequently stressful.

Nearly 45% of K-12 teachers feel that they are always or very often burned out at work, with 35% of college and university workers agreeing that they are also burned out.

As educators prepare to return to the classroom, it’s important for them to proactively reflect on their well-being, seek support from mental health professionals, implement self-care practices, and plan for a smooth transition back to teaching.

This strategy could involve working with a mental health professional to build resilience, finding ways to reduce stress in the classroom, and developing strategies to combat burnout upon returning to school.

“While it’s crucial to prioritize students’ mental health, we must also remember that educators, as the mentors of these students, play a vital role in their well-being,” said Mary Egan, Director of Outreach for Rosecrance Behavioral Health, who works closely with school and school districts. “This reciprocal relationship underscores the need for educators to receive the same level of attention and support for their mental health.

Rosecrance Behavioral Health can serve as a valuable resource for educators seeking to consult with a mental health professional and collaborate on addressing work-related stress and burnout.