Addressing Teacher Stress Through Innovative Program Developed by McGill University
Stress is a significant concern for teachers worldwide, as highlighted by Naz Böke, Academic Associate in McGill University’s Faculty of Education. In response to this pressing issue, the university’s Faculty of Education has introduced a groundbreaking program aimed at supporting aspiring teachers.
Known as the Regulating Emotions and Stress for pre-Service Teachers Program (RESST), this initiative is designed to equip future educators with the tools to manage the stress-related challenges inherent in their profession. Böke emphasized the alarming trend of teachers leaving the field within their first five years due to burnout, excessive stress, heavy workloads, and challenging working conditions.
The repercussions of teacher stress extend beyond individual well-being, impacting student academic performance and classroom dynamics. To address these issues, a research team engaged with education stakeholders across Canada to develop a comprehensive program focused on promoting teachers’ mental and emotional well-being through mindfulness and stress management techniques.
The feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with satisfaction rates ranging from 78 to 96 percent. Böke emphasized the tangible benefits of the program, highlighting its value in enhancing both professional and personal development for teachers.
The RESST program is now available for future teachers to access through 13 universities nationwide, offering evidence-based strategies for stress management and emotional regulation.
