Therapy Thursday

CALMING END-OF-YEAR STRESS

We are moving into the end of the school year. Although, we are eager for the summer so we can catch up on rest and regenerate for the next year, the end of the year also comes with its challenges and stressors. First, our cups are empty from giving 100% to our students and administration for eight straight months. Then, comes the additional paperwork, IEP meetings, state testing, being notified that we have a new subject to teach next year or being transferred to another grade level to start over, and let’s not forget those last-minute drop-in evaluations to fill admins quotas. There are also the emotions that come with your students moving from your classroom. Even though we long for the end of the year, goodbyes can be sad. In addition, I know my body has been going 90 to nothing and then everything comes to a screeching halt. For the first two weeks of summer break, my brain doesn’t realize it is time to rest, and I feel strange not working 10 hours a day. I find it hard to get my body into relaxation mode.

So, how do you cope with all of this year-end stress?

FOCUS ON THE END

Realize that the end is near and keep reminding yourself. You have run miles in a marathon and you only have one more mile to go! Keep your eye on the goal and begin planning what you are going to do during summer break, or what you are NOT going to do. Many of us use the summer to plan the next year, but it is important to set boundaries for your summer. Your priority should be rest and regeneration. Next year will arrive soon enough. I know many of us have mandatory courses required by our districts during the summer months. I suggested completing those courses and then not giving away more of your personal time you need to decompress and regain new energy for the next year.

ONE TASK AT A TIME

I know the end of the year can often times seem more stressful trying to get everything wrapped up. There is so much to do to close the end of the year: final grades, final testing, state testing, and all the additional requirements and checklist admin provides before you can clock out for the summer. Focus on one task a time and do the best you can. Try to plan out your time for getting the tasks done to minimize the amount of time you spend on a task and maximize your output. Prioritize you task and don’t procrastinate until the last week.

SLOW DOWN AND HAVE FUN WITH YOUR STUDENTS.

There are always fun, educational activities you can do during the last weeks of school that are fun and interactive and do not require a lot of grading. One activity I had my students do at the end of the year was to create an ABC book of everything they learned. This is a good review for the students to revisit. Then I would have them share their ABC books with the class. Students loved this activity and it was easy to manage and little to grade. We would also play review games. Your students are tired and aren’t at their peak learning state of mind. Play! Get them involved with fun review and learning activities.

START INCORPORATING SUMMER ACTIVITIES INTO YOUR SCHEDULE.

Get out and exercise, sit in the sun to absorb natural Vitamin D. Vitamin D is good to combat stress. Start a book you want to finish this summer — a book that is not about education or teaching. Start getting back in touch with your circle of friends and planning outings. This will help in the transition into the summer months.

ON THAT LAST DAY

Say goodbye to your students. Let them know you enjoyed your time with them. Know you did your best, and even though it does feel like it at the time, you had an influence on their lives that they will take into their future. The real reward comes when you see your students as adults. It isn’t until then that you see the difference you have made.

As teachers, we are often overworked and pulled in too many directions. We often put others before ourselves and it is hard to learn to take care of ourselves. Addressing mental health is part of self-care for our minds, bodies, and souls. Remember, if your cup is empty, you can’t fill someone else’s cup. Here are 27 FREE COUNSELING OPTIONS FOR

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