The Mental Health Awareness Session For Teachers


Date: 21st June 2025
Venue: Duchesne Hall

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28


A special session on Mental Health for Teachers was conducted on 21st June 2025 in Duchesne Hall, emphasizing the importance of emotional well-being and self-care in the teaching profession. The session commenced with a heartfelt prayer led by Mrs. Hazel, followed by a soothing prayer song performed by the Music Department.

The guest speaker, Mr. Vishwanathan Jayaraman, was warmly introduced by Mrs. Sneha R. The session began with engaging ice-breaker activities, creating a relaxed and open environment for participants.

Mr. Jayaraman navigated the discussion through a wide range of relevant and thought-provoking topics. Teachers reflected on what makes them smile at school and then explored the concept of stress, its types, symptoms, and its psychological and physiological impact. The session delved deep into the “amygdala hijack”—a condition where emotional responses override rational thinking due to stress. Concepts such as the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, the frontal lobe’s role in decision-making, and the fight or flight response were explained in relatable terms.

Teachers were advised to avoid making decisions when emotions run high and were reminded of the distinction between eustress (positive stress) and distress. The speaker highlighted warning signals of stress, the importance of regular sleep patterns, and changes in personality due to prolonged stress.

Several practical coping strategies were shared, including:
* Deep breathing exercises
* Meditation and mindfulness
* Expressive arts
* Routine establishment
* Self-care techniques
* Seeking support when needed
The concept of positive neuroplasticity was introduced, emphasizing the brain’s ability to change and adapt positively with practice. Time management emerged as a key component of stress management, and participants were introduced to various productivity techniques such as:
* Circadian rhythm awareness (understanding the body clock)
* Pomodoro technique
* Kanban board system
* Getting Things Done (GTD) method
* “Eat That Frog” approach for tackling difficult tasks
* Time boxing
* Inbox Zero
* “Who’s Got the Monkey” (delegation strategy)
* Eisenhower Matrix
* Identifying one's Biological Prime Time
* Maintaining a Productivity Journal
This informative and interactive session offered teachers not just insights into managing stress but also equipped them with tangible tools for fostering mental wellness and enhancing productivity. It served as a powerful reminder of the need to prioritize mental health amidst daily responsibilities.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Mr. Vishwanathan Jayaraman for his enriching session and to the school management for organizing this vital initiative. The session concluded with a renewed sense of awareness, encouragement, and support, leaving each teacher empowered to take charge of their mental well-being.

Report written by: Mrs. Nidhi Mehta