Teachers face numerous challenges every day: increasing demands, administrative tasks, individual support for students and ever higher expectations from society. All of this leads to increasing pressure, which often results in stress and burnout . The "School Barometer 2024" study by the Robert Bosch Foundation has brought to light alarming figures that show how much pressure teachers in Germany are under.
Findings from the “School Barometer 2024” study
According to the Robert Bosch Foundation's "School Barometer 2024" study, the stress symptoms of exhaustion, tiredness and frustration were particularly prevalent. What is particularly alarming is that around 12% of the teachers surveyed complain of daily exhaustion from work and over 25% of teachers are seriously considering changing careers to escape the constant stress. These figures illustrate the need for prevention and support measures for teachers.
How mindfulness and relaxation can help
Mindfulness and relaxation are two key strategies that can help teachers manage stress and prevent burnout . These techniques offer both preventive and acute support and can be integrated into everyday work.
Preventing stress through mindfulness Mindfulness, often practiced through meditation or conscious breathing exercises, helps to calm the mind and focus on the present moment. Regular mindfulness practice can reduce stress levels in the long term, as teachers learn not to be overwhelmed by negative thoughts or stressors. Studies show that just a few minutes of mindfulness a day are enough to sustainably increase well-being.
Relaxation techniques for acute stress management In acute stress situations, such as those that often occur in everyday school life, targeted relaxation exercises can provide quick relief. Progressive muscle relaxation, autogenic training or breathing exercises are effective methods for relaxing the body and calming the mind in a short time. Such techniques can easily be integrated into everyday work, be it during breaks or even during lessons.
Long-term benefits through regular practice The regular use of mindfulness and relaxation techniques leads to better resistance to stress. Appropriate routines and rituals lead to increased inner peace, better concentration and a generally more positive attitude to life. This practice also has a positive effect on the students: calm and balanced teachers create a relaxed learning environment, which in turn reduces the stress level in the entire class.
The importance of relationships in everyday school life
Another important aspect that contributes to stress management and burnout prevention is the quality of relationships with students and teachers. The "School Barometer 2024" study highlights that positive interpersonal relationships (with teachers and students) are a valuable resource for teachers. Connectedness and good relationships can significantly improve the working atmosphere, increase motivation and act as a protective factor against stress .
Fostering relationships through mindfulness: Through the practice of mindfulness, teachers develop a heightened sensitivity to their own needs and emotions as well as those of their students and colleagues . A mindful attitude helps to avoid misunderstandings, resolve conflicts constructively and create a supportive environment. Teachers who practice mindfulness often report improved communication skills and a deeper understanding in their relationships, which strengthens the sense of community in the school and increases overall satisfaction.
Strengthening cohesion among colleagues: A shared mindfulness practice among colleagues can promote cohesion and create a positive dynamic within the team. When teachers practice mindfulness exercises together, a deeper understanding of one another develops, which makes collaboration more harmonious and efficient. This helps to reduce stress and strengthen resilience.
Recommendations for teachers and schools
1. Integrate mindfulness training into everyday school life: Schools should offer their teachers access to mindfulness training. This can be in the form of workshops, regular meditation courses or through online resources. Participation should be encouraged and recognized as part of professional development.
2. Create relaxation rooms: It can be helpful to set up special rooms in schools where teachers can practice relaxation exercises. Such retreats promote mental health and provide a place for short breaks in the hectic school day.
3. Raise awareness of burnout: Schools and educational institutions should raise awareness of the dangers of burnout. Regular information events and the establishment of counseling centers can help to remove the taboo surrounding the topic and provide affected teachers with early support.
4. Support from leaders: School leaders play a key role in supporting their teachers. Listening to their teachers, providing resources and promoting a healthy work environment can go a long way in reducing stress.
5. Promote positive relationships among staff: Schools should create opportunities for teachers to interact and relax together outside of class. This promotes a sense of community and can help to positively influence the working atmosphere.
Conclusion on stress and burnout risk among teachers
The "School Barometer 2024" study clearly shows that the workload on teachers in Germany is high and that stress and the risk of burnout among teachers is a serious problem. Mindfulness and relaxation offer effective approaches to meeting this challenge. Through preventive measures and support in acute stress situations, teachers can maintain their health and continue to do valuable work for society. In addition, these practices help to improve the quality of relationships with students and colleagues, which in turn increases job satisfaction and the well-being of everyone involved. It is time for schools and educational institutions to focus more on this aspect and create appropriate offers.