On 4 November 2011, an “Emotion and Stress Management, Self-care, and Meaningful Living” mental-health workshop was held at the Open University of China (OUC). The workshop invited Wang Dongsheng, associate research fellow in the Psychological Counseling and Service Centre of the Student Affairs Department of the Party Committee of Beijing Normal University, to explain how to manage emotions and relieve stress. 29 teachers from various departments and the Experimental School attended.

Tian Suxia, deputy director of Department of Student Affairs and Teacher Development, said that the mental health of teachers is very important to their work as both teachers and role models.

On the basis of interviews and other investigations, Wang Dongsheng focused the workshop on stress management and self-care, guiding the teachers in ways of dealing with physical exhaustion and mental pressure, and exploring with them the value and meaning of their work and lives, with the aim of enhancing personal happiness.

The workshop resonated strongly with its participants. The teachers undertook honest and in-depth self-analysis, and responded positively to the experiences of others. Wang Dongsheng also took questions, and the teachers found his guidance useful as a basis for maintaining mental health and enhancing their work.

The participants emphasised that the importance of the mental health of teachers has become increasingly prominent. They urgently need psychological care and guidance, and look forward to similar workshops in the future. They believe that teachers will be able to convey confidence and positive energy to their students by implementing what they learn in the workshop.

By Li Yumeng, OUC