New online support group launched for teachers grappling with stress and burnout
To help support Educators, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group is launching a New Free Online Support Group for Educators, Learner Support Agents and anyone working in the Education sector across South Africa
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The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) has launched a free online support group for teachers.
Nirvana, an experienced educator with fourteen years in the field and a leader of the support group, highlighted the overwhelming pressures teachers face.
“Educators are dealing with increased work stress, massive pressure, and unrealistic deadlines that leave them stressed, anxious, and burnt out – and so many are silently struggling,” she explained.
"We’re all dealing with trauma from experiences at work or life itself, and I think this is something we need to talk about and support each other in a space that feels safe.”
Teacher Demographic Dividend Project at Stellenbosch University, led by Dr Heleen Hofmeyr, reveals alarming trends in teacher wellbeing.
According to the study, roughly 50% of surveyed teachers indicated they are considering leaving the profession in the next decade due to emotional exhaustion, overwhelming administrative tasks, and a lack of support.
“Teachers are emotionally exhausted, and many feel that their wellbeing is not prioritised by the system,” Dr Hofmeyr reported.
This free support group is accessible to all educators, regardless of grade level, subject, or years of experience.
The online support group will officially launch on Wednesday, October 1, at 7 pm, with subsequent meetings scheduled for the first Wednesday of every month.
Educators wishing to join the support group can reach out to Nirvana at 081 591 0084 for details.
IOL