Mental & emotional wellbeing: what is it and how to achieve it
Mental and emotional wellbeing refers to a state where you are able to manage stress, maintain positive relationships, and lead fulfilling, balanced lives. For early education and care professionals, mental and emotional wellbeing is particularly important because it not only affects your own health but also the learning experience for the children in your care.
In this article, we’ll explore the meaning of mental and emotional wellbeing, the challenges early education and care professionals face, and practical strategies to achieve and maintain it.
Understanding mental and emotional wellbeing
The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines mental health as ‘a state of wellbeing in which the individual realises his or her abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community’
Mental wellbeing involves cognitive health, resilience, the ability to think clearly and make sound decisions, allowing individuals to manage daily tasks and stresses effectively, whilst maintaining focus and productivity.
Emotional wellbeing, on the other hand, is the ability to understand and regulate emotions, maintain a sense of purpose, and foster healthy relationships. Emotional wellbeing is about feeling satisfied, content, and in control of emotional responses.
Together, mental and emotional wellbeing contribute to overall psychological health. For early education and care professionals, who spend their days working with young children, maintaining this balance is essential in order to create a calm and supportive environment.
The importance of wellbeing for early years educators
Early education and care professionals play a crucial role in the social, emotional, and cognitive development of children. When we are mentally and emotionally well, calm and balanced, we are better able to:
- Build nurturing, supportive relationships with children, helping them feel safe and valued.
- Create positive learning environments that encourage exploration, creativity, and learning.
- Model healthy emotional regulation by example, teaching children how to cope with their own feelings.
- Be resilient, even in our demanding roles, by coping with stress, bouncing back from challenges, whilst continuing to provide high-quality care.
Challenges to mental and emotional wellbeing in early education and care
Whilst working in early years education and care can be deeply rewarding, it also comes with its own set of challenges that can add strain to mental and emotional health:
Caring for young children requires continuous emotional engagement, which can sometimes be draining, particularly when we have to manage our own emotions at the same time as helping children navigate theirs.
Our roles require constant multitasking, managing dynamics and maintaining high energy levels to keep up with the needs of young children. At times we may feel pressure to ensure children are meeting certain developmental milestones or behaviour expectations, which can create a feeling of stress, especially if an individual feels unsupported.
The fast-paced nature of the job leaves little time to take breaks, reflect, or practice self-care during the workday and over time, the combination of emotional, physical, and mental stress can lead to burnout—a state of emotional exhaustion that can negatively impact both you and the children in your care.
Practical ways to prioritise your ,ental and emotional wellbeing
Achieving mental and emotional wellbeing is an ongoing process. Here are some practical strategies and tips to consider incorporating into your life:
1. Prioritise Self-Care
Taking care of your physical and emotional health should be a priority. This includes getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, and finding time for physical activity. Engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy outside of work, such as reading, or socialising, can help you recharge emotionally and mentally. Even brief moments of mindfulness or deep breathing during the workday, can reduce stress levels.
2. Set Healthy Boundaries
Emotional boundaries help you protect your wellbeing. This can involve learning to say "no" to extra responsibilities that might cause unnecessary stress or overwhelm, ensuring that work doesn’t blend into your personal time. Clear boundaries also involve knowing when to ask for help and recognising when you need a break.
3. Develop Emotional Awareness
Being aware of your own emotional state and how it fluctuates can help you manage stress and prevent burnout. Regularly check in with yourself to assess how you’re feeling and identify any stress triggers. Journaling, talking with colleagues, or seeking guidance from a mentor, can help you gain insight into your emotional health and provide a healthy outlet for stress.
4. Build a Support Network
Having a strong support system is crucial for maintaining emotional wellbeing. Colleagues, friends, and family can offer support, whether through shared experiences, advice, or simply listening when you need to vent. Being part of a community of fellow professionals can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide emotional and practical support. Why not connect with the Institute of Early Years Education forum as part of your membership.
5. Practice Stress-Management Techniques
There are numerous strategies that can help manage stress and anxiety, from mindfulness practices such as meditation and deep breathing, to physical exercise, which releases endorphins that improve mood. Regularly practicing relaxation techniques can help reduce stress before it builds up and becomes overwhelming.
6. Professional Development and Learning
Continuous learning can improve mental wellbeing by increasing confidence and competence in handling various situations in your role. Attend workshops, webinars, or professional development courses, or read articles that focus on emotional intelligence, stress management, and personal wellbeing. Learning new skills and strategies for managing the demands of early education and care, can reduce stress and increase job satisfaction. You can access a number of stress management and wellbeing courses and resources with Spectrum Life as part of the Healthy Lifestyles offer of your membership.
7. Seek Professional Help When Needed
If stress becomes overwhelming or if you’re struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety or depression, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional. Counselling or therapy can provide tools for managing stress, processing emotions, and maintaining balance.
Key takeaways
Mental and emotional wellbeing is vital for early education and care professionals, who play a crucial role in shaping the future of young children. By prioritising self-care, setting healthy boundaries, building emotional awareness, and developing coping strategies, individuals can protect their mental and emotional health. This, in turn, helps them to create a positive, nurturing environment where both they and the children in their care can thrive.
Achieving mental and emotional wellbeing is not a one-time task but a lifelong process that requires ongoing attention. By focusing on your own wellbeing, we are more likely to be able to continue to offer the care, patience, and guidance that young children need to grow and flourish.
As a member, you have access to a wide range of resources specifically designed to support your wellbeing. These include expert advice and guides on nutrition, sleep, and mindfulness, as well as a variety of digital gym classes to help you stay active from the comfort of your home.
