Physical and mental well-being of the Flemisch Secondary school teacher

Introduction: Current Flemish governmental data shows an increased rate of absenteeism amongst teachers due to psychological (39%) and musculoskeletal problems, especially low back problems (10%) a. Also international studies 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. The purpose of this study is to examine PA and mental well-being of Flemish secondary school teachers. The reason why teachers are a good targetgroup for health promotion interventions is twofold. Not only can they benefit themselves on a physical and mental level, but they can also have an influence on pupils health behavior.

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 PA (MVPA) active transport (to work) and sitting time, while general health was measured by the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF 36). Respectively the FABQ en the PAW were included to obtain information regarding Fear Avoidance Believes and Psychosocial Aspects at Work. Also data concerning musculoskeletal pain caused by work, teaching aspects and demographics were collected. Descriptive analyses were performed.

Results: Results of the survey among Flemish teachers (n=1167, age 40.25±9.7 years, 68% female) indicate that 66% met the current PA guidelines of more than 30 minutes of MVPA a day. 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%). Teachers reported an average sitting time of 277.8 ± 167.151 min/day.

Discussion & Conclusion: Flemish teachers have a relatively physically active lifestyle. They are 20% more physically active than the average Flemish population b. Compared to office workers and laborers4, teachers experience higher job satisfaction and social support at work. They do however 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.