PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELL –BEING OF THE FLEMISH SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHER

Introduction: Current governmental data indicates an increased rate of absenteeism amongst teachers due to psychological (39%) and musculoskeletal problems, especially low back problems (10%) a. Also in recent literature it can be concluded that teachers suffer from high levels of stress and musculoskeletal disorders 1,2. Regular physical activity (PA) is believed to improve physical and mental health3. This preliminary report examines PA levels and the mental well-being of Flemish secondary school teachers.

Method: An online survey, consisting of several validated questionnaires was used in a representative sample of Flemish secondary school teachers. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) estimated the amount of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, general health was measured by the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF 36) and the FABQ en the PAW include information regarding Fear Avoidance Believes and Psychosocial Aspects at Work. Also data concerning active transport to the workplace, musculoskeletal pain caused by work, teaching aspects and demographics were collected. Only frequency analyses were performed so far (descriptive statistics).

Results: The results of the survey among the Flemish teachers (n=1167, age 40.25±9.7 years, 68% female) indicate that 66% met the current PA guidelines. One third of the respondents is using active transport weekly to commute to and from school. Teachers experience a high level of job satisfaction and social support, but also high levels of mental stress. They feel their job is mentally demanding and involves a great deal of mental concentration and responsibility. In terms of pain awareness, the teachers describe high levels of pain especially in the neck (40%) and the back (47%).

Discussion & Conclusion: The Flemish teachers have a relative physical active lifestyle. They are 20% more physically active than the average Flemish populationb. Compared to office workers and laborer4, teachers experience higher job satisfaction and social support at work. They do experience higher levels of mental stress and more musculoskeletal problems compared to the general Belgian populationb. Future research may indicate whether the mental stress and physical problems arise from the high job demands.

Process evaluation: When carrying out the survey a couple of problems occurred: (1) contacting the respondents had been easier when in possession of personal addresses, (2) similar research was performed by the The GO! Flemish Community Education, at the same time, (3) teachers and schools are overwhelmed with questionnaires (4) cooperation with Catholic schools was more difficult.