Happiness class is helping clinically depressed school teachers become emotionally healthy − with a cheery assist from Aristotle

Happiness Class: Helping Clinically Depressed School Teachers Become Emotionally Healthy − with a Cheery Assist from Aristotle

Uncommon Courses: Evidence-Based Happiness for Teachers

In this series from The Conversation U.S., we highlight unconventional approaches to teaching.

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Title of the Course: Eudaimonic Happiness for Teachers

What Prompted the Idea for the Course?

As a clinical psychologist, I’ve spent nearly three decades training mental health professionals on suicide assessment. Yet, I watched with dismay as U.S. suicide rates relentlessly increased for 20 consecutive years, from 1999 to 2018, followed by a slight dip during the COVID-19 pandemic, and then a rise in 2021 and 2022 – despite more local, state, and national suicide prevention programming than ever.

What Does the Course Explore?

Using the word "happiness" can be off-putting. People often associate happiness with recommendations to just smile, cheer up, and suppress negative emotions – which can lead to toxic positivity. Instead, we embrace Aristotle’s concept of eudaimonic happiness: the daily pursuit of meaning, mutually supportive relationships, and becoming the best possible version of yourself.

What’s the Critical Lesson from the Course?

One of the most important lessons is the sleep lesson. A review of 33 studies from 15 countries reported that 36% to 61% of K-12 teachers suffered from insomnia. Sleep problems were generally worse when teachers were exposed to classroom violence, had low job satisfaction, and were experiencing depressive symptoms.

Why is This Course Relevant Now?

Teachers are more distressed than ever before. They’re anxious, depressed, and discouraged in ways that adversely affect their ability to teach effectively, which is one reason why many of them leave the profession after a short period of time. It’s not just the low pay – educators need support, appreciation, and coping tools; they also need to know they’re not alone.

What Will the Course Prepare Students to Do?

By the end of the course, educators will leave with a written lesson plan they can implement at their school, if they wish. As they deepen their happiness practice, they can also share it with other teachers, their students, and their families.

What’s the Result?

In a not-yet-published survey, more than 30% of the participants scored as clinically depressed prior to starting the class, compared with just under 13% immediately after the class. This improvement is similar to the results obtained by antidepressant medications and psychotherapy. Educators also reported overall better health after taking the class, including improved sleep, fewer sick days, and reduced symptoms of headaches, colds, and stomach problems.

Conclusion

The Happiness Class is a vital resource for school teachers struggling with depression and stress. By incorporating evidence-based happiness practices, educators can cultivate emotional well-being, improve their relationships, and perform at their best.

FAQs

Q: What is the goal of the Happiness Class?
A: To empower teachers with evidence-based happiness practices to enhance their emotional well-being and teaching effectiveness.

Q: What is the focus of the course?
A: The course explores the science of happiness, incorporating Aristotle’s concept of eudaimonic happiness, and applying evidence-based positive psychology interventions.

Q: Who is the target audience for the course?
A: The course is designed for K-12 teachers, school counselors, and staff, but it’s also applicable to other high-stress professionals.

Q: What are the benefits of the course?
A: The course can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and enhance overall well-being among educators. It can also improve job satisfaction, increase teacher morale, and lead to better student outcomes.

Q: How long does the course last?
A: The course is a low-cost, online graduate course that can be completed in a few months, but the benefits it offers can last a lifetime.