Mental health among teachers is an issue that needs to be thoroughly addressed. Due to the nature of their work, which involves intense emotional and cognitive demands as well as constant pressure, many teachers end up developing chronic burnout.

Burnout syndrome is a psychological disorder of a depressive nature, preceded by intense physical and mental exhaustion, caused by overwork and chronic stress related to the workplace.

Data published in a BBC Brasil article titled “Is Brazil Facing a ‘Burnout’ Epidemic?” revealed that in 2023, 421 people were placed on leave due to burnout— the highest number in the last ten years in Brazil, according to data from the National Social Security Institute (INSS). From 178 leave cases due to burnout in 2019, Brazil saw that number rise to 421 in 2023—a 136% increase.

In an interview with Conexão Bett, Paula Leão, an educator and principal at Escola Vila Aprendiz—a school dedicated to early childhood and elementary education—discusses burnout syndrome, which is a reality in the workplace, including in schools. 

Watch the full episode:

Paula points out that we live today in a drastically different landscape than we did two decades ago, especially when it comes to burnout and mental health. According to her, the rise in cases of burnout and even suicides is directly linked to profound changes in society and has been exacerbated by the pandemic.

"The pandemic was a catalyst for this situation, which was already alarming. Today, we live in a sick society," she said. She added that this problem is closer to us than ever: “In a group of 20 friends, practically everyone knows someone who has been directly affected by this. It has never been this close to us.”

For Paula, burnout is the result of various modern pressures, especially the excessive use of cell phones and the constant barrage of information. “The sheer volume of content we feel we need to absorb is one of the main causes of burnout. All it takes is opening Instagram and seeing something new to make us feel out of date. This leads us to open more tabs, search more, and this acceleration ends up overloading our minds,” she points out.

The principal of Vila Aprendiz School shared personal experiences that illustrate this situation. During a leadership session at a shopping mall in Recife, she witnessed the impact that news of a suicide had on the staff.

"It was a shock. We were there to discuss marketing strategies, but we had to deal with a painful reality. Twenty years ago, a shopping mall’s marketing focused on capturing happy moments, such as proposals and engagements. Today, professionals need to be prepared to handle tragedies and ensure that sensitive information doesn’t leak,” said Paula. This type of event illustrates how responsibilities have changed. “It’s a challenge to learn how to deal with these new demands that weigh on everyone’s shoulders, minds, and hearts.”

At Vila Aprendiz, specific strategies were adopted to support the teaching staff. “Our coordination and supervision team acts almost like a ‘protective wall’ to shield the teachers,” he explains.

The idea is to create a support system that absorbs excessive demands and reduces the pressure on faculty members. “We ask ourselves all the time: ‘Is this my responsibility? Should I carry this complaint on my shoulders?’ It’s a way to relieve stress on the team and maintain a healthy environment, despite the challenges.” Paula acknowledged that there are no ready-made answers, but she emphasized the importance of seeking solutions: “No one knows everything, but we need to be committed to making a difference.”

In addition to YouTube, the Conexão Bett is also available on major audio platforms, such asSpotify,Deezer,Apple Podcasts,Amazon Music, andGoogle Podcasts, among others, as well as on the Educador21 website.

Sharing Experiences

The exchange of knowledge and experiences within the education ecosystem is essential for the sector’s development. In this regard, Adriana Martinelli, Director of Content at Bett Brasil, appeared on the “Papo de Vila” podcast, produced by Escola Vila Aprendiz. The conversation focused on the teacher training process, which requires a curriculum that combines pedagogical theory with practical classroom experience. Listen to the podcast below:

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