Self-care tips for teachers

About 12 years ago I arrived at school at about seven-thirty as usual. I was an advanced skills teacher, and regarded well by most teachers, students and parents. I sat in my car until about eight, getting out did not seem an option; it was as if I were stuck. I decided to call my sister, who talked me round to driving home. I did, but it took several months for me to recover from this panic attack and return to work.

Stories like this are not unusual and they happen to competent, dedicated teachers. In hindsight, there were lots of reasons I reached this breaking point. The following five tips may help to protect you from developing mental health issues and should make you a happier, healthier, more productive teacher.