Mind Over Measure: The Role of Self-Care Practices in Mitigating Mental Health Strain Among K-12 Educators

Authors

• Jerry Burkett, Texas Woman's UniversityFollow
• Ryan Hulla, Texas Woman's UniveristyFollow

Short Title

The Role of Self-Care Practices Among K-12 Educators

Keywords

Mental Health, Teachers, Self-Care

Abstract

Teacher mental health is a critical concern in K-12 education, with high rates of burnout demanding effective protective strategies. This study investigated the relationship between five dimensions of teacher self-care (Physical, Psychological, Emotional, Spiritual, and Professional) and overall mental health outcomes, while specifically exploring differences between elementary (K-5) and high school (9-12) educators. A sample of K-12 teachers completed the Mental Health Inventory (MHI-5) and the Self-Care Inventory. Correlational analysis found that all five self-care dimensions were significantly and positively associated with mental health, with Professional Self-Care demonstrating the strongest link (r=.48, p

Recommended Citation

Burkett, Jerry and Hulla, Ryan (2026) "Mind Over Measure: The Role of Self-Care Practices in Mitigating Mental Health Strain Among K-12 Educators," School Leadership Review: Vol. 21: Iss. 1, Article 10.
Available at: https://scholarworks.sfasu.edu/slr/vol21/iss1/10