Teaching is ruining my life, but I don't know what to do instead

We asked readers to get in touch with work-related problems they need guidance on.

An anonymous teacher, 41, from West Yorkshire, wrote:

I’m desperate to get out of teaching. It’s exhausting, stressful and is ruining my life. I’m not a senior leader so can’t go on to be a consultant or inspector. I’ve been teaching for over a decade and most of the jobs I’ve seen that suit my skills and experience could mean taking over a 50% pay cut.

I feel totally trapped. I have so many useful skills including fantastic communication, creativity, collaboration, and very solid IT skills but I don’t know where to find my niche.

My job is making me ill. I have developed chronic headaches and IBS. Sometimes I have panic attacks. I am burning out. Carrying on is not an option.

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