Feeling empty

[Clotilde]

Hi Geoff,

Thank-you for showing me how to start a new post. I have replied to the previous one, but I will continue writing on this one.

Clotilde

[Clotilde]

I am a secondary teacher and I teach LOTE. It is really difficult for me to take time off even when I am sick and the doctor gives me a medical certificate. I teach year 12 and I am preparing them for their final exams at the moment. If I take time off, I am expected to prepare lessons for my replacements which is just as much work as if I went to work myself. Several years ago, I had major surgery and my employer was ringing me in hospital to ask work related questions. In the end, the hospital did not allow me take any telephone calls as I needed to rest. I reduced my work load by going part-time, but my workload is still increasing.

 I am thinking of applying for a job in a smaller school where hopefully, the stress levels won't be a much. I feel totally burnt out.

[CMF]

Hi

how are you? 

Wow you have heaps of pressure on you. You need a good break. I think applying for other jobs may be a good idea. Can you teach younger year levels so you don't have the exam pressure?

[Clotilde]

Hi,

I went to the doctor today and she has increased my medication. I will be starting counseling sessions next week. I think that if I can't find another job, I will decrease my hours again next year and do some tutoring from home to supplement my income. I really appreciate your support. I found that joining the forum has really been helpful for me and I don't feel so isolated. When I am back on track, I hope that I can give back to the group and support others.

[AGrace]

Hi Clotilde,

I'm glad you have got some support from your Dr, and I think the counselling sessions will be really beneficial. Looking for another job, or at least reducing your hours is a good plan. Just remember if you reduce your hours, then your workload also has to reduce. I know I've been caught out before in reducing hours but then still trying to fit in the same weight of work - it doesn't work.

It's nice to hear that you would like to give back, keep the focus on you for now.

AGrace

[Clotilde]

Hi again,

My Dr. has changed my medication, and I am starting to feel a little bit better. I am starting counselling sessions next week.

Regards,

Clotilde

[Clotilde]

Hi everyone,

I just wanted to give you all an update. I have change medications and I am getting counselling which means that I feel a lot better than I did a couple of months ago. My psychologist and GP wrote a letter to my principal asking him to reduce my workload by giving me less senior classes. My principal has been very supportive and spoke to the family of the student who gave me a hard time. I just wanted to thank-you all again for your help and support. It is great to know that I am not alone and that many others have depression and anxiety too. I have begun letting people know at work and I am amazed to find out how many of my colleagues have suffered from this condition too. Kind regards,

Clotilde

[AGrace]

Hi Clotilde,

Thanks for the update. It appears as though you are headed down the right path. I am really pleased that in opening up about mental health you have come across others who have walked a while in your shoes. The principal should be really proud for the way s/he has handled your situation.

I'm also glad that the counselling is helping you. It looks like all of your hard work is paying off. I hope that the reduction in hours will give you a little more "me" time.

All the best.

AGrace