Customer Reviews

An informative and practical guide on how to beat stress - By: , 19 Dec 2000
Divided into seven main sections, Kyriacou explores definitions of stress & identifies the common sources within teaching. He helpfully suggests practical ways of avoiding problematic situations & investigatesin depth both direct-action & pallative coping strategies. He moves on finally to discuss methods & stategies which schools & thosein positions of management could employin order to minimise staff stress levels. He ends on a practical note, inciting the reader to take steps to develop their stress-busting skills.

This 128 page book is thought provoking for those embarking on a careerin education, teachers who have much experience & also those with a management role. Aimed at being inspirational, comforting, realistic & encouraging, Kyriacou prompts the individual to take stock of their own life-situation & do something positive.

To illustrate his points, many quotations have been taken from various teachers who have participated over the yearsin Kyriacou's stress-busting workshops, making the text particularly reader friendly (along with the witty cartoons!) I have selected one of my favourites to whet your appetite.

'Give me the strength to change that which can be changed. Give me the patience to cope with that which cannot. Give me the wisdom to know the difference between the two.'

We are encouraged to become self-aware, analyse, prioritise & keep thingsin perspective. Sound advice for anyone.

Stress is still seen by many as a weakness. I feel that this book will help to break down those barriers of ill-informed prejudice & educate teachers on how not only to help themselves, but also, on how to help their colleagues & friends. Each staffroom should have a copy!

Well-researched, with an extensive bibliography,this is a must for anyone studying stressin teaching.