Educator burnout: Supporting teachers’ mental health
Many are silently battling stress, burnout, anxiety and even depression
Before the first bell rings, teachers are already carrying the weight of lesson plans, emotional demands and rising expectations. From integrating new technologies and managing parent communication to meeting increasing administrative demands, the pressure continues to build. Yet, while we count on teachers to shape future generations, many are silently battling stress, burnout, anxiety and even depression. Supporting teachers’ mental health is showing kindness and giving them the tools and resources they need to keep showing up for their students and themselves.
Recent studies show a growing crisis in teachers and mental health. According to Forbes, about 28% of teachers report symptoms of depression, nearly double the rate seen in other professions. Depression as a teacher often goes unnoticed, as many push through overwhelming workloads, emotional strain and limited resources just to meet daily expectations. Teaching involves constant emotional labor and high-stakes responsibilities, which can leave educators feeling isolated, exhausted and unsupported. The emotional toll isn’t just personal either, as it can affect classroom dynamics and student engagement.
Adding to this pressure is the increasing experience of anxiety from teaching. Between standardized testing demands, classroom behavior management and the ever-changing education system, teachers are operating in high-stress environments with little relief. This persistent stress can build up over time, leading to burnout, physical symptoms and serious mental health concerns. Burnout can show up as emotional detachment from students, chronic fatigue or a loss of passion for teaching. Acknowledging these challenges and offering proactive assistance isn’t just helpful, it’s necessary.
According to RAND, while three-quarters of teachers reported access to at least one type of well-being or mental health aid in 2023, only slightly more than half indicated that these aids were adequate. This highlights the need not just for availability, but for effective and meaningful resources.
If you’re a teacher facing stress, burnout or emotional exhaustion, it’s important to know that what you’re feeling is valid and that help is available. Many schools and districts offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which often include free therapy sessions, mental health referrals or crisis management.
Naturally, as humans, we don’t often like to admit we need help. It’s hard to acknowledge your feelings and seek support. However, it’s important to take the first step and ask your HR department what is available.
Outside of professional support, it’s also critical to make time for small acts of self-care throughout your day to reduce emotional fatigue. Assess your current routine and see where you can incorporate short breaks or activities that help you relax. While you’re at work, take five-minute movement breaks between classes or stretch during planning periods. Even simple practices like these can go a long way in helping you feel less overwhelmed.
It’s also important to be intentional about your time outside the classroom. After a demanding school day, it’s easy to fall into doom scrolling on social media or checking work emails late into the night. Instead, try building a wind down routine that helps you mentally transition from work to home. This might be a short walk, listening to music, journaling or simply making a cup of tea before starting your evening. Reducing screen time and creating moments of quiet can help your brain and body reset. It’s important to incorporate this into your routine whether you’re actively seeking professional support or trying to proactively work on your mental health.
Whether you’re a teacher, a parent or school leader, give yourself some grace. While details matter, don’t lose sight of the bigger picture: creating a kind and safe environment for students, colleagues and yourself. The work is demanding, and even when it doesn’t feel perfect, it is still powerful and meaningful. None of that is possible without self-care, and modeling that care for yourself is just as important as showing up for others. When we care for our teachers’ mental health, we’re investing in healthier classrooms, stronger communities and a brighter future.
Elizabeth Dosoretz, LCSW, is the founder and CEO of Elite DNA Behavioral Health. As a mother of three, her personal journey through the challenges of postpartum depression inspired her to found Elite DNA Behavioral Health in 2013 with a goal to provide accessible, affordable mental health care to everyone. Now one of the largest mental health providers, Elite DNA offers in-person and virtual mental health services from nearly 40 locations across Florida and Virginia. For more information, visit EliteDNA.com.
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