Unveiling the Taboo: Exploring Mental Wellbeing among Educational Professionals
Irène Mihaela Ionescu*ABSTRACT. The mental wellbeing of educational professionals remains a topic veiled in silence and stigma, yet its importance is undeniable in the context of fostering healthy, thriving school environments. This article aims to shed light on this critical issue, breaking through the barriers of taboo and initiating an open dialogue surrounding the mental health challenges faced by teachers, administrators, and other education professionals. This paper will delve into the multifaceted dimensions of mental wellbeing in educational settings. Drawing on empirical research, theoretical frameworks, and personal narratives, we will explore the prevalence of stress, burnout, and other mental health concerns among educators, as well as the systemic factors contributing to these challenges. Key topics addressed include the impact of workload and job demands on psychological health, the role of organizational culture and leadership in supporting mental wellbeing, and the effectiveness of interventions and resources available to address mental health issues within educational institutions. By confronting the taboo surrounding mental health in education head-on, this paper seeks to foster a culture of openness, empathy, and support within the educational community.
JEL codes: H75; I21; I22
Keywords: mental wellbeing; educational professionals; stigma; stress; burnout; organizational culture; leadership; resilience; high-stress environments
How to cite: Ionescu, I. M. (2024). “Unveiling the Taboo: Exploring Mental Wellbeing Among Educational Professionals,” Economics, Management, and Financial Markets 19(4): 23–32. doi: 10.22381/emfm19420242.
Received 1 June 2024 • Received in revised form 27 June 2024
Accepted 29 June 2024 • Available online 10 July 2024