Exploring pyschological effects of COVID-19 on life skills teachers in Windhoek: Experiences and coping strategies

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Date
2024
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Namibia
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted the global education system, with teachers facing significant challenges. The present study, specifically, explored life skills teachers’ pandemic experiences, coping strategies, and the psychological effects on their lives. A mixed-method research design was used to investigate the psychological effects of COVID19 on life skills teachers in Windhoek, Khomas Region, Namibia. Data was collected through a semi-structured and online questionnaire from 17 life skills teachers in Windhoek. Data was analysed using Google Forms Data Analytics. The findings revealed a significant impact on the teachers' mental health, with stress, anxiety, and depression being common experiences. However, the teachers demonstrated resilience through various coping strategies, such as seeking social support, practicing self-care, and adopting positive attitudes. The study further found that teachers used various strategies to cope with the pandemic, such as personal resources, and organizational assistance as key influencers on their coping mechanisms. To mitigate the psychological effects of the pandemic on teachers, it is recommended that schools and policymakers provide adequate support and resources. This may involve formally promoting self-care practices, offering access to mental health services, and addressing organizational factors contributing to stress, anxiety, depression and burnout
Description
A mini thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology
Keywords
COVID-19, Mental Health, Life Skills Teachers, Coping Strategies, Resilience, University of Namibia, Namibia
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