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Teacher wellbeing is the state of feeling good and functioning well as an educator and is important not only for teachers themselves, but also for their students, colleagues, schools and communities. It involves having positive emotions, meaningful relationships, a sense of purpose and a balance between work and leisure.

Teacher wellbeing also includes taking care of one’s physical and mental health and seeking support when needed. In this article, we will explore some of the benefits of teacher wellbeing for your health and happiness.

One of the benefits of teacher wellbeing is that it can improve your physical health:

Research has shown that teachers who have high levels of wellbeing are less likely to experience chronic pain, fatigue, depression, anxiety and burnout. They are also more likely to engage in healthy behaviours, such as eating well, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep and avoiding or quitting smoking. These behaviours can help you maintain a healthy weight, improve your cardiovascular health, strengthen your muscles and bones, reduce stress and enhance your mood. By taking care of your physical health, you can also prevent or manage various diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Another benefit of teacher wellbeing is that it can enhance your mental health:

Research has shown that teachers who have high levels of wellbeing are more likely to experience happiness, satisfaction, optimism and resilience. They are also more likely to practice mindfulness, express gratitude, seek social support and seek professional help when needed. These practices can help improve your mental health and reduce stress, loneliness and adversity. By taking care of your mental health, you can also improve your cognitive performance, mood, immune system, and metabolism.

A third benefit of teacher wellbeing is that it can boost your happiness:

Research has shown that teachers who have high levels of wellbeing are more likely to enjoy teaching, feel committed to their school and find meaning in their work. They are also more likely to have positive relationships with their students, colleagues and families, and receive recognition and appreciation for their efforts. These factors can help you increase your happiness, self-esteem and sense of belonging. By finding happiness in your work, you can also inspire happiness in others.

© Gaynor Clarke, October 2023

Gaynor Clarke

B.Ed (Teaching), Cert Tertiary Teaching, PGDip Ed, MEd Leadership

Reach. Teach. Lead.

Reach Education Ltd

Teacher Leadership Mentoring and Life Coaching.  Personal and Professional Development.

Gaynor is a teacher educator and mentor facilitating personal & professional leadership wellbeing outcomes for teachers.

About me

If you are an early childhood teacher or leader looking to enhance your leadership skills, I would love to work with you. As a leadership mentor and coach, I specialize in helping early childhood educators develop their leadership potential and make a positive impact for the ākonga they serve. If you are interested in learning more about my leadership mentoring services, please visit my website or contact me directly to schedule a consultation. I would love to work with you!

www.reached.co.nz

References

The Importance of Teacher Wellness – Every Teacher, Every Day. https://everyteachereveryday.kinf.org/the-importance-of-teacher-wellness/.

Supporting Stressed Teachers: The Benefit of Developing Teacher Wellbeing. https://www.worthit.org.uk/blog/stressed-teachers-wellbeing.