The growing problem of stress
Working in a school environment can be incredibly challenging. That’s why it’s so important to understand how stress affects your body.
When your body perceives a threat, it responds with the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol.
Physical symptoms can include:
- Chest pains
- Digestive issues
- Muscle cramps
- Dizziness or fainting
- Excess sweating
- Sexual difficulties
- Trouble sleeping
- Nervous twitches, nail biting or hair pulling
Emotional signs include:
- Changes in behaviour
- Anger
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Over/undereating
- Frequent crying
- Difficulty concentrating
- Insomnia
- Feeling tired and exhausted
Stress at exam time
Exam time can be a worrying and stressful time for both children and their parents. While a little bit of pressure can be productive, it can also lead to stress. It doesn’t stop at parents and teachers though – it’s a stressful time for those working around them every day. Whether you’re a teacher, a teaching assistant or the school business manager, you ultimately want the children to do their best – so the pressure’s on you too.
What to do when you’re stressed
Simply talking to an understanding friend or family member is one of the most effective things you can do when you’re stressed.
Admitting that you aren’t able to control everything also helps – this will help you to handle those unexpected situations. Stress management all boils down to managing your expectations. Some important ways to adjust your attitude are:
- Shedding the superman/woman image – be realistic
- Don’t expect too much of yourself – or others
- Be flexible and compromise where it’s beneficial
- Think positively and try to see the good in difficult situations
- Try not to take work problems home or home problems to work
How can we help?
As part of our wellbeing service at The Education Broker, we offer a confidential helpline for you and your staff to access 24/7 – Family of staff get access too. These helplines support issues such as stress, counselling, medical problems, legal affairs and money matters. For more information regarding our wellbeing service, simply call 0800 169 4614 where a member of our team will be happy to help. Alternatively, visit www.theeducationbroker.co.uk/wellbeing-service
Disclaimer: This article is intended for your general knowledge and does not substitute for the advice of a medical professional. It should not be used to diagnose or treat a problem.