The vast majority of teachers have suffered a decline in their mental health since the start of the pandemic, with nearly nine out of ten claiming they have experienced an increase in anxiousness.
A report by teachers’ union NASUWT found 91 per cent believe their job has negatively impacted their mental health over the last 12 months. It also found 90 per cent have had to face more work-related stress during this time.
This has involved a rise in anxiety for 87 per cent; a loss of sleep for 82 per cent; an increase in alcohol consumption for 28 per cent; a relationship breakdown for ten per cent; a greater reliance on prescription drugs for seven per cent; and even self-harming for three per cent.
Commenting on the findings, Dr Patrick Roach, NASUWT general secretary, stated: “The events of the last two years have turbo-charged the pressure they are under.”
He noted teachers have been facing “excessive workloads and working hours” over the last year or so, particularly having faced online learning challenges, covering staff absences for Covid-19, and looking after children who have been impacted by the pandemic too.
According to the findings, schools are not equipped to manage or support the wellbeing of staff, with 78 per cent of teachers claiming there are no workspaces that promote wellbeing, two-thirds saying there are no measures in place to monitor stress and burnout among staff, another two-thirds admitting their employer does not have a counsellor for employees, and 63 per cent stating there is nowhere for them to take a time out.
Consequently, more than half either disagree or strongly disagree that their school treats their mental wellbeing as a priority.
Dr Roach added: “If the Government is truly committed to the educational success of children and young people, ministers must deliver a better deal for teachers.”
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