In advance of February's #LTHEchat on X, Juliette Morgan reflects on staff wellbeing and the hurdles and strategies towards healthier, more supportive environments for all.
In the higher education sector, alongside wellbeing of students, staff wellbeing remains a challenge. From academics through to professional and student support services staff, the demands of the environment can place a toll on mental, emotional and physical health. As we prepare for our next #LTHEchat, we want to start the thinking around staff wellbeing; hurdles and strategies towards healthier, more supportive environments for all.
Multiple factors contribute to the strain experienced by staff. The pursuit of excellence, coupled with the responsibilities of teaching and administrative duties, often leaves little time for self-care. The precarious nature of academic employment, characterised for some by short-term contracts and funding uncertainty, can exacerbate stress and anxiety. Additionally, traditional hierarchical structures within universities may hinder open dialogue about mental health struggles, fostering feelings of isolation.
Despite these challenges, there is a growing recognition of the importance of prioritising staff wellbeing within HE institutions. Many universities are implementing a range of initiatives and best practices to support holistic health for staff.
