Being a trainee teacher can be very demanding. With studying, planning and preparing for lessons, teaching, marking, staff meetings, attending training and lectures, and all the other things involved in becoming a teacher, it can be hard to find that work-life balance. But making time for yourself shouldn’t be pushed to the bottom of your list.

Wellbeing refers to a state of being healthy, happy and comfortable both physically and mentally. If you are in a good state of wellbeing then you are more likely to feel motivated, engaged and resilient to cope with the challenges that you may be experiencing throughout your training, studies or your personal life.

Evidence suggests there are five steps you can take to improve your mental health and wellbeing. Trying these things could help you feel more positive and find that work-life balance that is so important in helping you to feel that you can cope with the day-to-day challenges of becoming a teacher. Below are some tips, activities and resources that you can start straight away.

Connect with others
Keep in touch with friends and family. Ensure to make the time to call, message and meet with the important people in your life. Interacting and connecting with these people is fundamental to having a positive impact on your wellbeing. They can also help, listen and provide advice on any issues you may be experiencing.

Exercise
Regular physical exercise has great health benefits and can increase those ‘feel good’ hormones. It doesn’t have to be strenuous. A daily short walk is great to clear your head and get some fresh air. How about trying an online workout at home which is a cheap alternative to paying gym fees or take a run, cycle, or do some gardening. Find something that you enjoy.

Give
Research suggests that acts of kindness can improve your mental wellbeing. Do something nice for a friend or stranger, thank someone for something they have done, smile, spend time with friends or family who require support, or volunteer for a local community group.

Learn
Learn something new. Take up a new hobby, cook something new, discover an old interest, take on that DIY task, or sign up to a course. Learning something new will help to make you feel confident, give you a feeling of accomplishment and a sense of purpose in something that you enjoy.

Notice
Take notice of what is around you and pay more attention to the present. When you are out, stop and pause for a minute to take in the surrounding. Look out for new and beautiful things in your everyday life and appreciate what is around you. Try some mindfulness and relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga.

Below are some links to resources where you can find more information and tips on wellbeing:
https://www.twinkl.co.uk/blog/trainee-teacher-well-being-strategies
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/wellbeing/wellbeing/
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/guides-tools-and-activities/five-steps-to-mental-wellbeing/
https://www.teachertoolkit.co.uk/2015/05/02/teacher5aday-by-teachertoolkit/
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/drugs-and-treatments/mindfulness/mindfulness-exercises-tips/

Click here to view the NML SCITT website