LASWELL

Prioritizing our Mental Health in Teaching

Teaching is a rewarding yet demanding profession that requires educators to navigate various challenges while supporting the growth and development of their students. In the midst of these responsibilities, it's crucial for educators to prioritize their mental health and well-being. This guide is designed to provide educators in the teaching sector with strategies for maintaining mental wellness and accessing support when needed.

As educators, your mental health directly impacts your ability to effectively teach, engage with pupils, and create a positive learning environment. Prioritizing mental health is not only beneficial for your own well-being but also for the well-being of your pupils and the overall success of your teaching practice.

Recognizing Signs of Mental Health Concerns

Educators may experience various stressors and challenges that can impact their mental well-being. It's important to recognize the signs of mental health concerns, such as:

https://www.verywellhealth.com/mental-illness-5113353

Persistent feelings of overwhelm or burnout
Difficulty managing stress or emotions
Changes in sleep patterns or energy levels
Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
Struggles with maintaining work-life balance

Strategies for Maintaining Mental Well-being

Here are some personalized strategies tailored to educators in the teaching sector:

Self-Care Rituals: Incorporate self-care practices into your daily routine, such as mindfulness exercises, journaling, or engaging in creative hobbies.
Peer Support Networks: Connect with fellow educators for peer support, collaboration, and sharing experiences. Building a supportive network can help alleviate feelings of isolation.
Professional Development: Attend workshops or training sessions focused on mental health awareness, stress management, and resilience building.
Boundaries and Time Management: Set clear boundaries between work and personal life, prioritize tasks effectively, and delegate responsibilities when possible to avoid burnout.
Accessing Mental Health Resources: Familiarize yourself with mental health resources available within your organization, such as counseling services, employee assistance programs, and wellness initiatives.

LASWELL Centre

Lagos State Government is committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of teachers in the teaching sector. We are proud to introduce the LASWELL Centre (Lagos State Employee Wellness Centre), a dedicated resource offering comprehensive mental health services, including counseling, workshops, and crisis intervention. Civil servants are encouraged to utilize these resources to prioritize their mental wellness and thrive in their roles. Located on the first floor of the Folarin Coker Staff Clinic, the LASWELL Centre (Lagos State Employee Wellness Centre) offers a warm, welcoming, and friendly environment dedicated to supporting the mental health and well-being of educators. Services at the centre are provided by licensed professionals in various disciplines who are willing and ready to help. The LASWELL Centre offers comprehensive mental health services, including counseling, workshops, and crisis intervention, tailored specifically for educators in the teaching sector.

As teachers in Lagos State, your well-being is paramount to your success in the teaching profession. By prioritizing mental health, accessing support when needed, and fostering a culture of well-being within the teaching sector, we can create healthier, more resilient educators who positively impact the lives of their students. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish, it's essential for effective teaching and overall well-being.

Watch the LASWELL Centre Introduction Video

We have attached a video that provides more information about mental health resources available to our staff, including details about the LASWELL Centre. We encourage all educators to watch the video to learn more and take advantage of these important resources.