05/17/2019

Manage Your Mental Health

Learn about Mental Health Awareness Month

Did you know that May is Mental Health Awareness Month? Yeah, labor is a big issue right now, but personally, I think mental health is one that’s underestimated in our industry. Unfortunately, it’s a topic that is taboo in a community that is comprised mostly of men. We just don’t talk about it when amongst friends and colleagues.

Your jobs can be really stressful…I don’t think I need to remind any of you of that. Whether dealing with staffing issues, club political issues, budget cuts, mother nature, home life, and so on, you are presented with many challenges on a regular basis. Many of you feel as if your job is constantly on the line. If not handled properly, the snowball effect of all of this can lead to some really dark places.

I get it. I’ve been there. I’ve struggled with anxiety for a while and have had some bouts with depression as well. The last few years have been pretty crazy for me…divorce, major job transition (leading to financial instability), moving (multiple times), dating, crazy kids, and that’s just scratching the surface.

Please select this link to read the complete blog post from OSAE Member Brian Laurent, Ohio Superintendent Network, immediate past-chair of the OSAE Foundation.