GOT STRESS?
Are you feeling like you’re on information overload? Attending too many meetings, trainings, etc.? Are you feeling overwhelmed with all that’s on your plate? And, on top of all that, you’re expected to come to school prepared, energetic and ready to teach. Is the reality of teaching anything like what you envisioned?
If you’re feeling stressed and on overload, take heart. You are not alone! In fact, this is what most teachers are experiencing at this time of year. The more experienced and tenured teachers may not be feeling it to the degree that the novice teacher is feeling it, but rest assured they’re feeling it too.
If you’re feeling stressed and on overload, take heart. You are not alone! In fact, this is what most teachers are experiencing at this time of year. The more experienced and tenured teachers may not be feeling it to the degree that the novice teacher is feeling it, but rest assured they’re feeling it too.
So how does one cope with the stress? Here are some suggestions:
• Acknowledge that you’re stressed. Consider what is in your control and what is not. If it’s not in your control, then let it go.
• If you’re feeling lost or confused, ask for help.
• Make time in your day for exercise. That is much easier said than done, but exercise is essential for your mental and physical well-being.
• Get plenty of sleep. Again, this is easier said than done but essential.
• Keep things in perspective and foster a sense of humor.
• Eat balanced and nutritional meals.
• Practice deep breathing or meditation.
• Keep a journal.
• Have a friend or someone you can confide in.
• Accept that you are human and that you can only do so much.
The important thing is that you realize that you are not alone. The sun always comes up in the morning and tomorrow is another day.
