STRESS IN TEACHING AND ITS IMPACT ON THE PHYSICAL HEALTH OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHERS IN BRAZIL

Abstract

Stress is affecting more and more people, with various implications for their health and quality of life. High levels of stress at work can lead to various negative consequences for a professional's quality of life and productivity, including demotivation and interpersonal difficulties, as well as psychological and physical symptoms. One of the professions considered to be the most stressful by the International Labor Organization is that of teacher. They often work in inadequate conditions and suffer from a range of stress factors, such as student indiscipline/violence, overcrowded classrooms, poor working conditions, lack of materials, low salaries, poor state organization in dealing with curricula as well as teachers. Stress, as well as the consequent Burnout Syndrome, are frequent reasons for absence from teaching in Brazil, related not only to mental health, but also to the physical health of teachers. This article therefore aims to carry out a narrative review of the scientific literature on the effects of stress on the physical health of primary and secondary school teachers in Brazil. First, the concepts related to stress and the possible physical symptoms associated with this condition are presented. Finally, the main stressors in teaching in basic education in Brazil are discussed, as well as the levels of stress suffered by teachers and their manifestations on physical health.