Teacher wellbeing

Teachers regularly have to juggle many competing demands. As a result, they can easily put other people’s mental health and wellbeing needs ahead of their own. However, it's important that teachers take the time to prioritise their own mental health and wellbeing, for their benefit and that of the whole school community.

Mental health and wellbeing activities for teachers should be ongoing and holistic. Embedding self-care activities such as physical activity, catching up with friends, and setting boundaries around work can support teachers to improve and maintain their personal wellbeing.

These activities should be paired with knowledge of and access to formal support networks, such as employee assistance programs (EAP). Supportive and trusting workplace cultures will also have a positive impact on the mental health and wellbeing of teachers and other school staff. School leadership can provide resources and articles, arrange for peer mentoring, and encourage professional relationships among staff.