Recognizing the signs of burnout
As a result of COVID-19, many educators are experiencing physical isolation, a surge in care demands, and all the unknowns. These factors can all lead to increasing stress levels.
When stress builds up it can lead to feelings of extreme exhaustion and being overwhelmed, also known as burnout.
Here are some signs you may be experiencing burnout:
- having feelings of sadness, depression, failure, helplessness or apathy
- becoming easily frustrated
- blaming others, or feeling generally irritable
- feeling disassociated, indifferent or apathetic
- isolating or disconnecting from others
- practising poor self-care
- feeling tired, exhausted or overwhelmed
- using negative coping strategies
Sustaining Wellness and Preventing Burnout
Check in with yourself:
Graphic adapted from Road to Mental Readiness, Canadian Armed Forces © October 2017 Drs. Kerri Ritchie & Caroline Gérin-Lajoie, The Ottawa Hospital
Care for Yourself:
Meet your basic needs (eat, drink water, sleep)
Transition within your day- Ask yourself am I distracted? Do I need a mental break?
Breathing Exercises
Stay Connected
Find support from friends and coworkers
What about the people we are supporting?
Use the HELP acronym
Ask HOW are you?
Be EMPATHETIC and understanding
LISTEN without judgement and state your concerns
PLAN next steps: encourage formal support or ask what you can do to help.
Reach out if you need Support!
Resources:
https://www.cma.ca/maintaining-wellness-during-pandemic
MFAP and Teacher Well-being https://www.stf.sk.ca/pension-benefits/teacher-well-being
Health Line 811 is a confidential, 24-hour health and mental health and addictions advice, education and support telephone line available to the people of Saskatchewan. It is staffed by experienced and specially trained Registered Nurses, Registered Psychiatric Nurses, and Registered Social Workers. Health Line 811 is free.
The Canadian Mental Health Association, Saskatchewan Division has set up phone lines to support those who may be struggling in these changing times: Provincial Line: 306-421-1871 Provincial Youth Line: 306-730-5900
Support is also available through the Saskatchewan Health Authority Mental Health intake at 1-800-216-7689.
Cornerstone of Wellness 