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7 Lessons Learned About Mental Health While Managing Sickness in the Classroom
how you can keep your body and mind healthy in the "sick months"
Grant Chiasson
November 15, 2024 • Read Time: 7 minutes
Welcome to the 16th edition of Resilience Blueprint!
In any classroom, illness is almost inevitable. After years of teaching, I’ve come to understand that maintaining good health around a room full of sniffling, coughing, and sneezing kids is more than just luck—it’s a craft.
Along the way, I’ve picked up some invaluable lessons about staying resilient, physically and mentally, despite a steady exposure to germs and stress.
Here are seven insights I’ve learned firsthand that anyone can use to navigate a world where sickness—and stress—are hard to avoid.
1. Embrace the Art of Mindful Immunity
One of the most important lessons I learned early on was that staying healthy is proactive, not passive. I used to think of my immune system as something that simply was, but teaching has taught me that it’s something I can actively support.
Small habits—like handwashing, avoiding touching my face, and making sure I get enough sleep—became my daily rituals. While we can’t control everything, small, consistent actions can go a long way in preventing illness.
2. Sleep Isn’t Optional
It took me a few seasons of flu and colds to realize that sleep wasn’t just nice to have; it was necessary. Lack of sleep weakens the immune system, and as a teacher, I can’t afford to be out sick or foggy-minded.
I learned that prioritizing sleep wasn’t selfish; it was one of the best ways to ensure I could show up fully for my students.
Over time, I set firm boundaries around my bedtime, and even on the busiest nights, I make sleep a priority.
3. Stress is Contagious—And Manageable
Kids sense energy, and when I’m stressed, they pick up on it fast, amplifying their own anxieties. I noticed this pattern early on, which taught me how stress can be as “contagious” as a cold.
When I feel stressed, I try to focus on mindfulness or even take a minute to breathe deeply between classes. Teaching myself to reset my stress levels has not only helped me stay calm but also set a positive example for my students.
Now, I encourage mindfulness practices in class, so we can all manage stress together.
4. Nutrition is Immunity’s Best Friend
Being in a classroom means I can’t just leave whenever I feel hungry, so I learned to bring nutrient-dense foods that are quick and easy to eat.
Snacking on fresh fruit, nuts, or even yogurt has become my daily routine. These foods fuel my energy, support my immune system, and keep my mood stable throughout the day.
I’ve come to realize that what I eat directly affects my ability to stay well and handle stress.
5. Physical Boundaries are Necessary
Teaching taught me to embrace boundaries, both in terms of physical space and emotional energy. Kids are naturally affectionate, and I’ve had my fair share of bear hugs, high-fives, and hands-on activities.
While I encourage connection, I’ve also learned to set healthy boundaries to reduce the risk of catching something. I started using “air high-fives” or elbow bumps instead of handshakes, which kids think are fun and creative.
I’ve also learned to create emotional boundaries to protect my own well-being, allowing me to be present without burning out.
6. Mind Over Illness: Strengthening Mental Resilience
It’s no surprise that teaching can be mentally draining, but I’ve found that mental resilience is as important as physical resilience.
I noticed that during stressful times—like exam weeks or parent-teacher conferences—I was more likely to get sick. Building resilience through mindfulness, gratitude journaling, and regular exercise has helped me handle the pressure of teaching.
Keeping my mental health in check has made a huge difference in my overall wellness, teaching me that a healthy mind is essential for a healthy body.
7. Healthy Relationships are a Form of Immunity
Teaching is a team sport. Colleagues, family, friends, and even the students themselves play a role in my well-being.
I learned to lean on my support network when times get tough, and I’ve seen how laughter and empathy from friends can be just as healing as rest or medicine.
By prioritizing healthy, supportive relationships, I’ve created a network that helps me bounce back when I’m feeling low, stressed, or physically drained.
Teaching is a journey that’s taught me about more than education; it’s been a lesson in health, resilience, and compassion.
While being around sick kids all the time is a challenge, it’s also been a gift—giving me tools and habits that not only keep me healthy in the classroom but help me lead a balanced, resilient life overall.
Grant Chiasson Mental Performance
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