Managing Teacher Stress as We Go Back to School

August 24, 2020

Going back to school in the fall of 2020 is unlike any year we have ever experienced. For parents, children, and educators this has been a time of uncertainty. For teachers, there is usually a level of stress they can expect but COVID-19 has added additional challenges that test teachers’ creativity, time management, and safety. 

We know our teachers are essential and doing their very best to teach our children and keep them safe and as stress-free as possible. It can be easy to forget about themselves and their own self-care along the way. Below are some simple tips to help with stress management.

Assess your stress

The first step to a solution is identifying the problem. Are you overwhelmed by a one big issue or a variety of small stressors? 

Breathe

When you’re experiencing intense levels of stress, breathe in deeply (put your hands on your stomach and feel it expand out), for four seconds, then exhale evenly for four seconds. Keep this up for 2-3 minutes for maximum effect. 

Try a breathing app such as Breathwrk.

Know you are doing “enough”

It can be easy to be overwhelmed while trying to balance virtual work, in person classroom, and home life. Try the technique of thinking in threes to help you prioritize. Are there three things that need to be done today or three things you can do during this period? 

Cultivate Gratitude

Celebrate your successes! At the end of each day or each week set aside time to write down what went well. This could be as simple as a moment in your day that made you smile or an assignment that went smoothly. 

Ask for Help

Being able to reach out to fellow mentors, teachers, or counselors can help you feel less alone. Ask for advice, reach out to colleagues, and cast a wider net. Know that you are not alone! 

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