Mental Health Challenges Among Secondary School Teachers: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The mental health challenges faced by secondary school teachers have become a critical concern, influencing not only educators’ well-being but also the overall quality of education. Teachers experience significant stressors, including excessive workload, emotional labour, job insecurity, and insufficient institutional support, leading to burnout, anxiety, and depression. The stigma surrounding mental health further prevents many teachers from seeking help, exacerbating their struggles and negatively impacting their job performance. Additionally, the rapid shift to digital learning and the increasing reliance on extracurricular activities to foster student engagement have had both positive and negative implications for teachers’ mental health and work-life balance. This systematic review examines existing literature on the mental health challenges faced by secondary school teachers, exploring key factors contributing to stress and emotional distress. The findings highlight the urgent need for policy interventions, institutional reforms, and structured mental health programs that provide support and coping mechanisms for educators. Schools that implement professional development programs, peer support networks, and workload management strategies report lower levels of burnout and higher teacher satisfaction. Digital literacy training and balanced extracurricular participation are also recognized as crucial elements in alleviating teacher stress and promoting well-being. To address these challenges, a multi-dimensional approach is required, integrating mental health awareness into teacher training, promoting a culture of openness, and ensuring access to confidential counseling services. Governments and educational stakeholders must collaborate to establish systemic policies that prioritize teacher mental health, preventing attrition and improving overall educational outcomes. By fostering a supportive work environment and recognizing mental health as a fundamental aspect of professional development, educational institutions can contribute to a more resilient and effective teaching workforce. This review underscores the necessity of comprehensive mental health strategies to support teachers, advocating for sustainable solutions that enhance their well-being and, ultimately, benefit students and the broader educational system. Mental health challenges among secondary school teachers have gained increasing attention due to their significant impact on both teachers’ well-being and student learning outcomes. This systematic review explores the key mental health challenges faced by secondary school teachers, identifies contributing factors, and highlights potential strategies for addressing these issues. The review is based on recent literature, focusing on themes such as stress, burnout, job satisfaction, and coping mechanisms. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions, policy reforms, and institutional support to improve teachers’ mental well-being and ensure a sustainable teaching environment.