Why the mental health of teachers should concern us?

By Ocen Daniel Comboni

Gulu | As the world celebrates World Mental Health Day on October 10, Uganda takes part in the celebrations. The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated this year’s theme as “Mental Health at Work.” 

The theme emphasizes the need for institutions to address mental health and well-being in the workplace as these have an impact on the productivity and benefit of the people in the environment.

This annual event provides an important platform for raising awareness about mental health issues.

Teachers play an important role in shaping young people’s well-being as mentors and caregivers in the educational sector.

Throughout each academic term, teachers engage with students for over three months, dedicating their efforts to knowledge-building and supporting the career growth of these young individuals. As a result, teachers are frequently viewed as parental figures outside of the home, providing crucial guidance and support.

However, learners may face mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and performance-related stress. In these cases, the learner-teacher relationship plays an important role in developing resilience and creating positive learning environments.

Young people are more likely to seek help from adults who demonstrate genuine care and acceptance, free from judgment.

Teachers, like everyone else, face mental health challenges. They face daily stressors, including domestic violence, burnout, and heavy workloads, all of which can lead to conditions like depression, anxiety, and alcohol and substance abuse.

Such struggles not only hinder their ability to perform effectively in their roles, but can also have a detrimental impact on the mental health of those they teach.

Schools need to prioritize the mental health of their teaching staff. I strongly recommend that educational institutions implement measures such as providing teachers’ days off for rest, organizing staff retreats, offering incentives, and connecting teachers with professional mental health services such as the Mental Health Uganda Helpline 0800212121. 

By addressing the mental health needs of teachers, schools can create a healthier and more supportive environment for both teachers and learners, concurrently.

The writer is a Community Psychologist, and Project Officer at Mental Health Uganda.