Terrible Guilt Being a Teacher

[azafata2]

This is nothing about the strikes. I have been a secondary school teacher for 18 years. I am off at the minute because I contracted gastroenteritis. I worry so much about the kids when I am not there. Deprived area. Sometimes I buy them lunch as they have no money on account. My anxiety for them is through the roof. I have been really physically unwell but can't stop worrying about my form class. Help

@azafata2 I suggest you ask MN to move this to the staff room where more helpful people can respond. I hope that you’re feeling better today x

When work is affecting you this much it’s time to do something about it.

You sound a lovely person but I think you need to get some help. You need to detach yourself a bit as you can’t solve everything.

This. You can't go on feeling responsible for everything in these children's lives or you will burn out. If you are ill you are ill and, at the end of the day, it's just a job.

I am making a guess that I understand why you are worried - is it because you are acutely aware of how the political decision to dismantle institutional support is harming children?

You are not responsible. You are one person.

You need support to deal with the impact on you - the harm being done to you - as a result of watching children's lives worsen.

You sound like an amazing teacher, OP, and I'm sure your students will think the same.

I know it's hard but try to focus on your recovery and then you can get back to them where you belong.

Firstly thank you so much for your input. I really appreciate it.

I am going to talk to someone about this as it is causing me problems. At least I am beginning to feel better and am off for a few more days on doctors orders.

Will focus on getting better and then set up some support for my MH around this anxiety.

Have a good day and once again many thanks.

These people can be really helpful: www.educationsupport.org.uk/get-help/help-for-you/helpline/

But I know how you feel. It is very hard to detach when you care so deeply about individuals you teach. You cannot help being ill, and the problems they are facing are not just on you to solve.

I'm sure you have, but have you raised the issue at school? Is there anything they can do e.g. breakfast club, to ensure students are getting at least something each day?

I know in a previous job I used to have a kid come to me in the mornings and I'd make him coffee and a slice of toast because he'd get nothing at home- but if it's multiple students it shouldn't be on just one member of staff to fill in the gaps.

Yes, Lola very very true!