Teacher Burnout

By Dr Tanvi Tijoriwala

If you are a teacher, you are probably heading back to school this Fall. Many teachers feel a sense of pride and enjoyment when it comes to their job, so going back to work after a long hiatus will be extremely fulfilling. However, research shows that 40-45% of teachers also feel emotions related to BurnOut.

Burn out is a medical term used to describe the state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion after experiencing a prolonged period of stress. It is often accompanied by extreme fatigue, lack of sleep and feelings of overwhelm.

A survey done amongst teachers in North America attributed this stress to student’s behaviour, excessive paperwork, unsuccessful administrative meetings, and the lack of advancement opportunities in teaching.

Part of the reason addressing burnout is so important is because it causes an imbalance in cortisol which is the stress hormone. Having vast fluctuations in cortisol for a long period of time can affect your health negatively.

Studies show that many teachers follow this trend of:

High job demands –> Burnout –> Ill health

Symptoms of high cortisol can include:

• rapid weight gain
• high blood pressure
• skin changes (acne, eczema, aging)
• mood swings, which show as anxiety or irritability

Symptoms of low cortisol can include:

• Fatigue
• Low immunity
• Dizziness upon standing
• Irregular periods in women
• Lack of sex drive

Teachers have an extremely important job which many times is accompanied by stressful situations. Avoiding these situations is nearly impossible but one can manage their health better so you can take on these challenges successfully.

If you would like to get more information about how natural therapies and nutrition can help you with fatigue or burnout please email Dr. Tanvi Tijoriwala, Naturopathic Doctor at dr.tanvi@muscleandjoint.ca or book in a complimentary consult to discuss how you can have more energy and better health CLICK HERE . If you don’t find an appointment time that works for you feel free to email Dr. Tanvi or call the clinic at (905) 593-1605