Teachers’ experience, needs and recommendations for promoting their health and wellbeing in Australia: A reflexive thematic analysis

This study explores Australian teachers' perceptions and experiences with preventive health programs, assesses their support needs and makes recommendations for future interventions. Twenty-three teachers with varying experience and from diverse locations, were interviewed. Reflexive thematic analysis revealed that teachers viewed past health initiatives as unsustainable and ineffective. They emphasised the need for co-designed, relevant interventions that promote mental wellbeing, include social connections, and incorporate practical activities. Despite recognising the benefits of health-promoting behaviours, teachers faced barriers, including heavy workloads and unsupportive school cultures. The findings suggest systemic changes and cultural shifts are essential to enhance teacher health and wellbeing. • Current programs are not adequate to improve teacher health or wellbeing. • Future programs should be co-designed to improve relevance. • Future programs should address mental wellbeing and facilitate social connections. • Teachers want systemic and cultural changes to improve their health and wellbeing. • Teacher health programs may facilitate cultural changes in schools.