The Oklahoma Education Association (OEA) is urging teachers to prioritize their mental health by taking advantage of available resources. The organization recognizes the importance of educators and other school staff taking care of themselves in order to effectively support their students. Teachers not only address academic needs but also play a critical role in the social and emotional well-being of students.
The OEA offers a trauma cadre with free resources to support educators in managing the trauma they may encounter at work. This initiative aims to assist students who have experienced trauma and to address the secondary trauma that teachers may experience on the job. President Katherine Bishop highlighted the organization’s efforts to pass a bill supporting an Employee Assistance Program in partnership with the State Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse. This program would provide a hotline where educators could seek help as needed.
President Bishop emphasized the importance of teachers having colleagues to talk to and being willing to seek outside counseling when necessary. Encouraging a supportive environment within school districts can help teachers effectively manage the challenges they face in their roles. The OEA is committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of educators in order to ensure they can best serve their students.
