Managing work-related stress in teaching
Teaching is often described as one of the most rewarding professions, yet it can also be one of the most stressful. Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the future, but this responsibility, combined with a variety of external pressures, can lead to high levels of stress.
The National Association of Head Teachers has warned that teachers are being “pushed to the edge of despair” by workload, whilst the tragic case of head teacher Ruth Perry taking her own life following an Ofsted inspection further highlighted the impact the teaching profession can have on mental health.
Whether it’s juggling a heavy workload, managing classroom behaviour, meeting administrative expectations, or coping with limited resources, teachers face a unique set of challenges that can affect their mental and physical wellbeing.
Causes of work-related stress for teachers
Teachers experience stress for a variety of reasons, many of which stem from the nature of the job itself. Some of the most common causes include:
Heavy workload
Between lesson planning, grading, administrative paperwork, and extracurricular responsibilities, teachers often find their work spilling over into evenings and weekends, leaving little time for rest or personal activities.
Classroom management
Managing the behaviour of students, especially in large or diverse classrooms, can be mentally and emotionally taxing. Constant disruptions, conflicts among students, or a lack of respect can erode a teacher’s confidence and patience.
High expectations and pressure
The pressure to meet curriculum standards, prepare students for standardised tests, and achieve high performance scores can create a relentless cycle of stress. Many teachers feel the weight of these expectations, not only from school administrators but also from parents and the community.
Limited resources
Budget constraints can lead to inadequate teaching materials, large class sizes, or insufficient support staff. Teachers often have to compensate for these limitations by spending their own money on supplies or working extra hours.
Emotional strain
Teachers are often emotionally invested in their students’ wellbeing, and witnessing students struggle with personal or academic issues can be heartbreaking. This emotional toll can accumulate over time, leading to burnout.
When left unmanaged, stress can have significant consequences for teachers, including physical health issues, exhaustion, anxiety and depression – all of which can interfere with a teacher’s ability to focus, plan, and engage meaningfully with students.
Practical Strategies for managing stress
While stress is a natural part of teaching, there are effective strategies that can help manage it. Here are some key ways teachers can reduce work-related stress:
- Set boundaries
It’s important for teachers to establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Set a designated time for work-related tasks, and try not to bring work home every day. This could mean leaving lesson planning and grading at school or setting specific hours for schoolwork during the week, while protecting weekends for rest. - Practice time management
Prioritising tasks and managing time effectively can alleviate the pressure of a heavy workload. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable parts and using tools like calendars, to-do lists, or time-blocking techniques can help prevent feeling overwhelmed. - Seek support from colleagues
Teachers can benefit from leaning on their colleagues for support and advice. Regularly sharing experiences, resources, or teaching strategies with fellow teachers can foster a sense of community and reduce feelings of isolation. - Use mindfulness and relaxation techniques
Practicing mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or meditation can help teachers manage stress in the moment and reduce overall anxiety. Even taking short, mindful breaks during the school day can provide a mental reset. - Delegate where possible
Teachers don’t have to handle everything on their own. Delegate tasks to teacher assistants, enlist the help of students for minor classroom responsibilities, or lean on school staff when possible. Sharing the load can lighten the mental and physical burden. - Focus on self-care
Prioritising physical and mental wellbeing is crucial for managing stress. Teachers should make time for exercise, hobbies, and activities that bring joy and relaxation. Adequate sleep, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity can all contribute to a greater sense of wellbeing. - Seek professional help if needed
If stress becomes unmanageable or begins to affect a teacher’s mental or physical health, it may be necessary to seek help from a counsellor or therapist. Many schools offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide free or low-cost mental health services. There are also charities that can help, including Education Support
Work-related stress is an inevitable part of the teaching profession, but it doesn’t have to lead to burnout. By recognising the causes of stress and implementing strategies to manage it, teachers can protect their wellbeing and continue to thrive in their roles. Acknowledging and addressing stress is not only important for the health of teachers but also for the quality of education they provide to students. By prioritising self-care and advocating for support, teachers can foster a balanced, sustainable, and rewarding career.