Teacher Wellbeing Is Not a Luxury—It’s a Necessity: Sanjay Desai on Empowering Educators Through Conscious Support

In an insightful conversation with Sanjay Desai—author, entrepreneur, and CEO, ConsciousLeap, Mumbai —explores the often-overlooked mental health struggles teachers face and the urgent need to prioritize their wellbeing. He discusses how burnout, emotional stress, and lack of institutional support are undermining the education system.

 What are the biggest yet overlooked struggles teachers face in their daily work?

Teachers face immense pressures and day-to-day challenges that often go unnoticed, with their wellbeing at the core of many struggles. The expectation to be constantly available whether for parents, students, or school leadership while managing increasing workloads, and the emotional strain from juggling the dynamic nature of schooling today – leaves little time for self-care, leading to burnout.

Addressing teacher wellbeing is crucial not only for their personal health but for the quality of education itself. Schools must prioritize mental health resources, and a culture of support. When teachers are well-supported, they are more engaged, effective, and capable of fostering positive learning environments for students. Teacher wellbeing is not a luxury, it’s a necessity.

How does teacher wellbeing directly impact student success and school performance?

When teachers feel supported, valued, and emotionally well, they bring more energy, patience, and creativity into the classroom. A teacher who is mentally and emotionally well is more likely to build positive relationships with students, fostering a sense of trust and motivation that enhances learning outcomes. Conversely, teacher burnout leads to disengagement, increased absenteeism, and higher turnover rates, all of which disrupt student learning and school stability.

Investing in teacher wellbeing is not just about supporting educators; it’s a strategic decision that benefits students and the school community. When teachers are emotionally and professionally fulfilled, they are better equipped to inspire, engage, and uplift their students. Schools that prioritize teacher wellbeing ultimately create stronger, more successful learning environments for everyone.

What key factors contribute to teacher burnout, and how can we prevent it?

Teacher burnout is a critical issue that affects both educators and students. Factors contributing to burnout include excessive workload, emotional strain from student needs, and pressures from a fast-paced and demanding learning environment. These challenges lead to educator stress, exhaustion, and high turnover rates, which disrupt student learning and school stability. Studies have shown that students in classrooms with burnt-out teachers perform worse academically and have lower engagement levels.

When teachers are mentally and emotionally well, they are more effective in fostering engaged, motivated, and high-achieving students. Investing in teacher wellbeing is not just about supporting educators it is a crucial step toward improving the entire school system and ensuring long-term student success.

How can schools integrate mental health support to create a positive culture for educators?

Integrating mental health support in schools is essential to creating a positive culture for educators, leading to better student success and long-term educational impact. Teachers face immense stress from workload, student behavior management, administrative pressures and dealing with the parent community –  often without adequate support. Unchecked teacher burnout results in lower student engagement, poor learning outcomes, and higher teacher attrition rates.

Schools can prioritize teacher wellbeing by implementing mental health programs, such as access to professional counseling, peer support groups, and mindfulness workshops. Regular stress management training and professional development focused on emotional resilience can help educators handle challenges effectively. Additionally, fostering an open and stigma-free environment for discussing mental health concerns ensures teachers feel supported.

A collaborative school culture can be built by encouraging strong leadership support, reducing unnecessary administrative burdens, and providing mentorship programs to assist new teachers. Schools should also implement flexible policies like mental health leave and structured work-life balance guidelines to prevent burnout.

When schools invest in teacher wellbeing, educators are more motivated, engaged, and effective in the classroom. This leads to improved student performance, better emotional development, and a stronger, more sustainable education system for the future.