Psychological distress and mental hygiene strategies in special educators: a qualitative probe into challenges and stress management

The aim of this paper is to explore the working conditions of special educators and identify the key sources of stress and strategies they use to maintain psychological well-being and prevent burnout syndrome. The research probe was conducted through qualitative interviews with thirteen special educators. The results revealed that the main stress factors were high responsibility for students, emotional exhaustion from working with children with special needs, and time-consuming administrative duties. The most common methods of mental hygiene include support from colleagues and management, assertive communication, and regular self-reflection. These findings underscore not only the importance of institutional support and individual strategies for maintaining long-term occupational health in this profession but also suggest practical implications for reducing stress through systemic changes, such as streamlined administrative processes and increasedpsychological resources available to educators.