Doctoral research at the Dutch-speaking Free University of Brussels (VUB) reveals that over one-third of teachers in secondary education are at an increased risk of burnout.
As the academic year progresses, this risk escalates, according to a VUB press release. During the 2019-2020 academic year, 25.6% of teachers surveyed in September and October had an elevated burnout risk.
This rate rose to 34.8% in the subsequent months, dropping slightly to 31.7% in January and February 2020. Researcher Yanni Verhavert (VUB) observed a significant dip during the subsequent period of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The onset of the pandemic initially saw a dramatic drop in burnout risk, which then sharply increased once more.
"In the second term of the following academic year (2020-2021) we see somewhat higher percentages, potentially indicating a negative long-term impact of the pandemic," suggests Verhavert, who also examined the effects of exercise, healthy eating, and sleep.
Verhavert’s research confirms a causal relationship between physical activity and burnout, "depending on the level of discipline and intensity."
Domestic and gardening chores at a moderate intensity, such as cleaning or mowing the lawn, seem to have detrimental effects. However, moderate-intensity active commuting, like cycling to work, appears beneficial, as does a good sleep pattern.
Verhavert advises policymakers and schools to encourage teachers to engage in physical activity outside of working hours. He also suggests that the government could minimise job-related stress factors by allowing teachers to focus more on the core aspects of their role and meet the three basic human needs: greater autonomy, connectedness, and competence.
According to Verhavert, these changes should contribute to enhanced wellbeing and increased motivation.
