Something to teach and to learn: the psychic suffering and mental health of educators in Alto Oeste Potiguar, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil¹

Abstract

This article, originated from the research project Born in the shadows: perception of the academic community of Pau dos Ferros on psychic suffering and mental health, analyzed the health condition of educators in the municipality of Pau dos Ferros, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, aiming to identify damages and impact factors on these professionals’ health. This qualitative research was carried out between February 21, 2019, and March 21, 2019, at the Universidade do Estado do Rio Grande do Norte (UERN), in the Instituto Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (IFRN), and at the Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido (UFERSA). Data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire with 34 teachers by proportional stratified sampling. Content analysis was used to decode the statements and results showed an estimated 60% of the target audience, that is, 20 out of 34 respondents indicated psychic suffering, excessive workloads, inadequate working conditions, constant stress, strong social pressure, lack of leisure time, among others. The causes for this high rate represent serious danger for the health of these professionals, requiring health policies to address them.

Keywords:
Psychic Suffering; Mental Health; Educators; Alto Oeste Potiguar