Dr Helen Kelly: Switching Off & The Hidden Cost of Always Being On | Episode 148

“What we need to do is try to break that cycle of compulsive behaviour.” - Dr Helen Kelly

Why is it so hard to switch off?

Even when the school day ends, the work often follows us home, in our minds, in our emails and in the emotional weight we carry.

In this episode, Meg Durham is joined by Dr Helen Kelly to explore why switching off feels so difficult and how learning to switch off is a skill every educator can master.

Together they unpack the cultural pressures, digital habits and deep sense of responsibility that keep teachers and school leaders always on.

You’ll learn how chronic stress shows up, why burnout is more about the system than the individual, and what small shifts can make a big difference.

Inside this conversation:
• The early signs of emotional and physical burnout.
• How cultural expectations shape our relationship with rest.
• The impact of guilt on educators' ability to switch off.
• Micro-habits that support healthy recovery.
• How to reframe self-care as a professional responsibility.

This episode is a compassionate reminder that learning to switch off and protecting your energy is not selfish, it is essential.

Episode 148 Shownotes - Click here.

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Dr Helen Kelly - Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 

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Meg Durham - Website | LinkedIn | Instagram

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** The School of Wellbeing is one of Australia's best health and wellbeing podcasts for teachers, educators and school leaders! **