A Seminar Designed for Student Teachers to Increase Their Wellbeing and to Better Cope with Stress

Abstract

Teachers are often affected by mental or psychosomatic illnesses, which are indicated by non-specific physical symptoms such as exhaustion and headaches. However, first hints to this problem emerge even earlier: the hassle of excessive individual demands and unfavorable time management can lead to an increased burnout risk among prospective teachers. To better support students in overcoming these challenges, an innovative seminar was designed. In the seminar, relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and learning strategies are to be practiced. This should not only reduce students’ stress in the future, but also contribute to a higher overall well-being. The seminar is accompanied by a multi-method evaluation study in which qualitative and quantitative surveys will be conducted. In the long term, the seminar will also be made available to fully qualified teachers.