The Hidden challenges of New Teachers: Navigating Mental Health Challenges for Classroom Success
Dr. Gwendolyn Lavert, PhD
Literacy Leadership Trainer/Keynote Speaker - Principal/Teacher Coaching - Strategic Planning -Differentiated Professional Development - Data-driven strategies
Teaching is a demanding profession, especially for new teachers who are just beginning their careers. While professional development (PD) can provide them with instructional techniques and classroom strategies, it often overlooks deeper challenges, such as mental health issues, that can impact teaching effectiveness and classroom management. This article explores how school leaders can better support new teachers facing mental health challenges to foster both their well-being and success in the classroom.
The Story of a New Teacher and Her Mental Health Journey
A new teacher came to me expressing concern about her ability to teach reading effectively. I quickly developed a comprehensive PD plan that included in-person and online workshops, classroom walkthroughs, one-on-one reflection sessions, and lesson modeling. Despite her commitment, after several weeks, I noticed that discipline issues in her classroom were escalating, and parents started voicing their concerns.
During a one-on-one meeting, she disclosed that she was struggling with mental health issues and had been taking medication that wasn’t effective, causing significant mood changes and impacting her ability to manage her classroom. This revelation was a turning point, shifting our focus from solely instructional support to holistic mental health support.
How Mental Health Impacts Teaching
Why Mental Health Matters in Teaching:
Steps for Principals to Support Teachers Facing Mental Health Challenges
1. Open and Compassionate Communication
2. Provide Access to Mental Health Resources
3. Adjust Workload and Expectations
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4. Regular Check-Ins and Mentorship
5. Integrate Self-Care into Professional Development
Real Resources for Teachers and School Leaders
Books:
Organizations:
Journal Articles:
Lessons Learned from Experience
Despite comprehensive PD efforts, the teacher in question ultimately decided to step away midyear to prioritize her mental health. While it was difficult to see her leave, it underscored a crucial lesson: instructional support alone isn’t enough. Teachers need comprehensive support systems that include mental health resources, empathy, and an understanding that their well-being is fundamental to their success in the classroom.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Teacher Well-being
Supporting new teachers goes beyond instructional coaching. Addressing mental health challenges, providing empathetic support, and ensuring access to resources are crucial for their long-term success. When school leaders create an environment that values both professional growth and mental health, they empower teachers to thrive and create a more positive, stable learning environment for students.
Prioritizing teacher well-being ultimately leads to better classroom management, higher student engagement, and a stronger, more resilient school community.
Fellowship of palliative care, MSC in Nursing.
3 天前https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38007388/
Organizational and Business development consultant who ROCKS THE HOUSE!!
2 周Part of teachers training should include mental health topics. Managing your own mental health while facing the many challenges of teaching takes balance for all faculty members. The difference in a positive educational learning experience can be based upon the mental health of the students and teachers. In the conclusion this article addresses supporting new teachers and does mention the health of the faculty members is important for the create a positive educational community. Great insight!