Teachers’ Mental Health Has Suffered in the Pandemic. Here’s How Districts Can Help (edweek.org)

Teachers’ Mental Health Has Suffered in the Pandemic. Here’s How Districts Can Help (edweek.org)

In the article “Teachers’ Mental Health Has Suffered in the Pandemic. Here’s How Districts Can Help” by Catherine Gewertz, she discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of teachers and offers suggestions for how districts can support them.  Gewertz notes that the pandemic has caused stress, anxiety, and burnout among many teachers, who are dealing with increased workloads, the challenges of remote or hybrid teaching, and concerns for their own health, and the health of their students. She cites surveys that have found high levels of stress and anxiety among teachers during the pandemic, as well as an increase in requests for mental health support to support teachers’ mental health.  Gewertz suggests that districts can provide resources such as counselling services, wellness programs, and mental health training, noting that some districts have already implemented such programs, and that there are also online resources available to support teachers’ mental health. Gewertz also emphasizes the importance of school leaders acknowledging the challenges that teachers are facing and offering support and flexibility. This can include recognizing teachers’ hard work and providing opportunities for professional development and collaboration.  Overall, Gewertz’s article highlights the importance of supporting teachers’ mental health during the pandemic and beyond and offers concrete suggestions for how districts can do so.

Journal Prompts

• The first article, Teachers’ Mental Health Has Suffered in the Pandemic, notes that teacher burnout has been a longstanding issue even before the pandemic. In your opinion, what are some of the main challenges that plague educators today in the aftermath of the pandemic? What is still needed to support educators, especially those who seek help?
• The article by Catherine Gewertz also discusses the role of school leaders in promoting teacher well-being. What are some strategies leaders in your school or district use to promote a focus on educator wellness and mental health? If educator mental wellness is not promoted in your school or district, what changes would you like to see in this area?