Teaching is rewarding — but it’s also demanding. According to a 2023 Pew survey, 77% of teachers say their job is frequently stressful, and 68% describe it as overwhelming.
Below is a guide of practical strategies to help manage stress and maintain energy in the demanding world of education.
Why Stress Is a Common Challenge
Teachers balance countless priorities: lesson planning, grading, student behavior, administrative demands, and emotional support. Over time, these pressures can erode well-being, especially when left unaddressed.
Practical Strategies to Stay Grounded
1. Prioritize and Organize
- Break your to-do list into categories like “urgent,” “this week,” and “later.”
- Set a daily cutoff time for work and protect that boundary.
- Batch tasks (e.g., grading, planning) to reduce mental switching.
2. Lean on Your Community
- Connect with colleagues or join a teaching group, like our KEYTA Member Facebook Group, to exchange ideas and vent.
- Consider a peer mentoring relationship — even small check-ins can help.
3. Build Mini Breaks into Your Day
- Use quick breathing exercises between tasks.
- Take short micro-breaks: stretch, step outside, or reset your focus.
- Keep a gratitude note: jot one positive moment from the day.
4. Simplify Classroom Demands
- Use low-prep, high-engagement activities when you can.
- Maintain clear routines and expectations—consistency reduces stress for you and students.
5. Take Care of Your Body & Mind
- Aim for consistent, restorative sleep.
- Move daily — even a short walk helps.
- Keep healthy snacks to sustain energy and avoid crashes.
Reframe & Reconnect
Stress can sometimes point to growth, not just pressure. Recognize small wins, lean into your purpose, and view challenges as opportunities to learn.
Support Resources
- Webinars & guides: Check out Share My Lesson (free access to 400,000 lesson plans, classroom activities, and professional development resources) or Edutopia (unlimited, free access to tips and strategies from inspirational educators) for stress-management tools.
- Professional help: Use your school’s Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or consider educator-friendly therapy options.
- Community: Connect with communities on online platforms to exchange ideas and offer support.
