S3:E2 – Listening for the Signals of Teacher Burnout with Kim Johancen

Episode Summary:

Therapist and former school-based counselor Kim Johancen delves into teacher burnout and explains why it isn’t a personal flaw – it’s a human nervous-system response to chronic stress. Kim walks through the early warning signs educators often miss, then shifts into realistic ways to respond, recover and prevent burnout by building small, sustainable regulation habits and stronger boundaries, along with encouragement and clear signs that healing is happening.

 

Key Takeaways:

• Burnout is a signal, not a failure—your body is telling you things are out of balance.
• Chronic stress can push the brain into survival mode, which changes how we think and feel.
• Everyone’s burnout looks different, but early awareness makes recovery easier.
• Small, consistent practices can be more effective than waiting for one big “fix.”
• Boundaries and support systems are essential for long-term sustainability in education.

 

Memorable Quotes:

• “Burnout is a nudge to get back into balance.”
• “It’s a stress response, not a personal flaw.”
• “Your experience is valid—and there’s nothing wrong with you.”
• “Burnout is about disconnection.”
• “Stress is a normal human response… and you’re not alone.”

Resources & Links:

• Kim Johancen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-johancen-03413842?trk=public_post_feed-actor-name
• Kim Johancen Website: https://www.clearviewcounselingdenver.com/contact

 

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