07 Aug Why Teaching Feels So Emotionally Draining Right Now — And What You Can Do About It

Posted at 13:24h in Uncategorised by Liz Lopez

Moore Teachers: Championing Educator Wellbeing, One Placement at a Time

You start the day with the best intentions: calm, cheerful, ready to teach. Then a child has a meltdown, a parent corners you at the gate, the printer jams, and before you’ve had a chance to breathe, it’s 3pm and your head is spinning.

If you’re finding the job emotionally exhausting lately, you’re not alone. At Moore Teachers, we speak to brilliant teachers and support staff every day who are quietly running on empty—and often wondering, “Why is this so hard?”

It’s not just workload. It’s the emotional energy teaching demands, day after day.

When Caring Becomes Draining

In primary schools, it’s natural to give a lot emotionally. You’re not just delivering lessons—you’re holding space for tiny humans as they navigate friendships, feelings, learning challenges, and more. You care. And that care takes energy.

When that emotional output isn’t balanced with rest, support, or recognition, it builds up and can leave you feeling depleted. This is what many educators now experience as compassion fatigue: the emotional weariness that comes from constantly showing up for others without space to refill your own cup.

Why Now?

Let’s face it: 2025 hasn’t made things easier for educators.

Pupil needs are rising, particularly around behaviour and mental health
Staff shortages mean more pressure and fewer breaks
Accountability pressures continue, with inspections and data never far away
Many support structures have been reduced or lost entirely

Whether you’re in a permanent role or working in supply, these challenges land on your shoulders and they add up.

Spotting the Signs

If you’re feeling off, but can’t quite explain why, here are some things to look out for:

You feel emotionally drained after even “normal” school days
Little things irritate you more than they used to
You’ve lost motivation or enthusiasm for the job
You’re finding it harder to bounce back from difficult moments
You feel guilty for not “giving more,” even when you’re exhausted

Sound familiar? These are all normal signs that your emotional resources are running low.

So, What Can Help?

You don’t need a week off in the Maldives to feel better (though we wouldn’t say no!). Sometimes, the most powerful changes are simple, human, and local.

At Moore Teachers, we believe the system needs to do more to support you, but in the meantime, here are a few small ways you can look after yourself, right now:

Recognise That Emotional Work Is Work

The energy you give to pupils, families, and schools every day matters. Acknowledge that effort – it’s real, and it deserves rest.

Find Work That Respects Your Capacity

This is one reason so many educators turn to supply teaching. You can still make a difference without taking home the emotional load of a full-time class teacher role. We help you find the balance that fits.

Say No Without Guilt

Whether it’s an extra responsibility or a late-night email reply, you don’t owe everyone everything. Boundaries protect your energy and your long-term love for the job.

Stay Connected With People Who Understand

Teaching can be isolating when you’re overwhelmed. A chat with someone who gets it can work wonders. If you ever need a sounding board, our team at Moore Teachers is only a phone call away.

Let’s Redefine What It Means to Be a “Caring” Teacher

Caring doesn’t mean giving until you’re empty. It means showing up with empathy and respecting your own limits.

At Moore Teachers, we’re proud to support educators who care deeply and who are learning to care for themselves too. Whether you’re exploring supply roles to gain breathing room, or just want to feel seen and supported, we’re here for you.

💬 Want to Talk About What You Need Right Now?

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, curious about supply teaching, or just want to speak to someone who understands the pressures of life in the classroom, we’re here to listen.

📞 Get in touch with Moore Teachers today – let’s find a role that works for you, not the other way around.

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