CISD Staff
Mental Health and Wellness Newsletter -October
Take Care of Yourself
As we head into the holiday months, remember to take care of yourself too. No matter your job, your hours, or your home life, there are stressors.
What does self-care really mean? Self-care is filling your cup before it’s empty, so that you have enough to give. There is a reason that we call it “practicing” self-care, as it takes practice. Self-care is really about changing the way that you go about your day in order to take care of yourself. Self-care includes giving yourself time to do the things you enjoy, and planning ahead, so you don’t feel as stressed or rushed. Sometimes it’s going for a walk or leaving work on time, and other days, it is simply giving yourself a 15-minute brain break during the day. Finally, it’s important to have fun. After all, laughter is the best medicine. Surround yourself with people who make you happy and plan activities that brighten your day.
Avoiding Burnout and Finding Hope for Teachers and Educators During Crisis
Educators face a vastly different reality in today’s classrooms and communities due to the tensions from the COVID-19 pandemic and community unrest all over the country. The hope that they are making a difference has always been a key motivator and contributor to job satisfaction for educators. However, this fall the overwhelming challenges they are facing are causing a growing sense of compassion fatigue and hopelessness for many of our teachers. The need to incorporate effective self-care while acknowledging one’s own experiences with trauma is a necessity during these unprecedented times. Focusing on resilience is critical for the social emotional needs of teachers.
Finding Hope and Thriving: Tips for Success
-Prioritize what students actually need
-Collaborate with your peers and ask for help when needed
-Know that you are impactful on a huge level
-Understand that healing takes place in safe spaces; create a safe space for you and your students
-Develop and maintain meaningful relationships with students, peers, friends, and family
-Know where your heart is;
-Make time for yourself; balance is essential to health
-Effect positive change; teach and reach
-Look for "aha" moments; have a desire to be successful
-Be adaptive; be a problem solver
-Be self-compassionate
-Check-in on others
-Embrace uncertainty
-Know that you are the biggest influence in a child's life next to being a parent! You are necessary. You are appreciated. You are valued.