Exploring the stress management and well-being needs of pre-service teachers

Pre-service teachers (PSTs) receive limited stress management training despite evidence of teachers' stress and its consequences on students. This study used a multistakeholder approach to conduct semi-structured interviews with PSTs, in-service teachers, school administrators, and directors of teacher preparation, informing a quantitative survey for PSTs across Canada to (1) identify expected stressors, (2) determine support/strategies, and (3) prioritize stress management delivery options. Thematic and descriptive analyses suggest agreement for teacher education to include preparation on stress management, self-care, mindfulness, and effective communication. To best support PSTs, teacher preparation programs should consider implementing stress management within the curricula.