Maintain Work-Life Balance: Find Mental Health Support As An Expat Teacher In Thailand

The mental health of any individual regardless of which profession they are working and it’s the most neglected aspect. However, as time progresses people now understand the importance of mental health well-being, especially after the pandemic havoc in 2020. According to irisconnect.com survey, it has been found out that 52% of educational professionals say that their mental health has declined during the pandemic.
 

Source: https://blog.irisconnect.com/uk/how-to-support-teachers-wellbeing-pandemic
 

‍Mental health support is a crucial aspect of overall health and well-being, especially for those teachers who have pursued courses like a Bachelor of education in TESOL or TEFL in Thailand and living in a foreign country like Thailand. Expat teachers in Thailand may face unique challenges that can affect their mental health.

Fortunately, there are resources available to help expat teachers in Thailand find the support they need. However, you may be wondering, where you can find help and resources. No need to worry, because we have created this blog post which will explore the importance of mental health support for expat teachers, the challenges they may face, and the resources available to them in Thailand.

So, without any further delay, let’s get started!

Importance of Mental Health Support for Expat Teachers in Thailand

Mental health support is crucial for everyone, regardless of where they live or work. For expat teachers who have pursued courses like B.Ed. in TESOL and went to teach English as a second language in a foreign country like Thailand, the importance of mental health support is even more significant in their case.

Living and working in a foreign country can be stressful and overwhelming, especially if you are far away from family and friends. Homesickness, culture shock, and language barriers can all contribute to feelings of isolation and anxiety.

Moreover, teaching can be a demanding profession that requires a lot of mental and emotional energy. Expat teachers may face additional challenges, such as adapting to a new curriculum, dealing with challenging students, and navigating a different education system. All of these factors can take a toll on an expat teacher's mental health.

Challenges Faced by Expat Teachers in Thailand

Expat teachers in Thailand face several challenges that can affect their mental health. Like-

• Culture shock: Thailand has a unique culture that can take some time to adjust to. The language barrier can also be a significant challenge, especially if the teacher does not speak Thai. Additionally, the weather in Thailand can be hot and humid, which can be challenging some people to adjust to.
• Home-sickness: Being away from family and friends can be difficult, especially during special occasions. Moreover, the lack of a support system can make it challenging to cope with the stress and demands of teaching.

Now after knowing the importance and challenges you may face as an Expat teacher in Thailand, let’s get to know some places where you can find mental health support in Thailand.

Mental Health Support in Thailand

Fortunately, there are several resources available to expat teachers who went to Thailand after completing courses like Bachelor of education in TESOL or TEFL in Thailand who are seeking mental health support. Here are some of the most notable options:

1. New Counselling Service (NCS)

New Counselling Service (NCS) is a counselling centre in Bangkok that provides a range of services, including counselling, psychotherapy, and psychiatric consultations. They offer services in English and Thai, and their team of professionals includes licensed psychologists, psychiatrists, and counsellors.

2. Psychological Services International (PSI)

Psychological Services International (PSI) is another counselling centre in Bangkok that offers mental health services to expats teachers. They provide counselling and psychotherapy, as well as psychological assessments and testing. Their team of professionals includes licensed psychologists, counsellors, and social workers.

3. Manarom Hospital

Manarom Hospital is a private hospital in Bangkok that provides mental health services to expats. They offer a range of services, including psychiatric consultations, counselling, and medication management. Their team of professionals includes licensed psychiatrists, psychologists, and counsellors.

4. Bangkok Hospital

Bangkok Hospital is a private hospital in Bangkok that offers mental health services to expats. They provide psychiatric consultations, counselling, and medication management. Their team of professionals includes licensed psychiatrists, psychologists, and counsellors.

5. The Samaritans

The Samaritans is a non-profit organization that provides emotional support to people in Thailand. They offer a 24-hour helpline that expats can call if they need someone to talk to. Their volunteers are trained to provide emotional support and can refer people to mental health professionals if necessary.

Tips for Taking Care of Your Mental Health as an Expat Teacher in Thailand

Here are some tips for expat teachers in Thailand who want to take care of their mental health:

1. Stay connected with family and friends back home.

2. Join expat groups and make new friends.

3. Practice self-care, such as exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep.

4. Learn about Thai culture and language to help with the adjustment process.

5. Seek professional help if needed.

Online Resources for Mental Health Support

In addition to the resources and tips listed above, expat teachers in Thailand can turn to for mental health support several online resources. Here are some of the most helpful resources:

1. Expat Counselling and Coaching Services: This online counselling service provides expat-specific counselling and coaching services in English.

2. BetterHelp: BetterHelp is an online counselling service that provides counselling and therapy to people around the world.

3. Talkspace: Talkspace is another online counselling service that provides therapy to people around the world.

4. Headspace: Lastly, Headspace is an app that provides guided meditation and mindfulness exercises to help reduce stress and anxiety.

Encouraging Expat Teachers to Seek Mental Health Support and Resources Available to Them

Teaching in general comes with lots of responsibilities and teaching in a completely new country could take a toll on that teacher. Those who have pursued their dream to teach in Thailand by pursuing courses like a B.Ed. in TESOL or Bachelor of education in TESOL face unique challenges that can affect their mental health.

It is important for them to seek mental health support when they need it. There are several resources available, including counselling centres, hospitals, and online services. Expats teachers with Bachelor of education in TESOL should also take care of their mental health by staying connected with family and friends, practicing self-care, and seeking professional help if needed. By taking these steps, expat teachers in Thailand can prioritize their mental health and maintain their work-life balance successfully.

Find the right course for you and try out the course. Contact us at - +6621055721. You can also mail us at asiancollegeofteachers@gmail.com.