Luke’s story: I was carrying it alone - until one 45-minute call changed everything
After a distressing incident at school, deputy headteacher Luke found it difficult to switch off. The emotional pressure of his role had built up, leaving him anxious, exhausted and feeling like he was carrying it alone.
Luke called our free, confidential helpline and spoke to a qualified counsellor for 45 minutes. Here, he shares how that conversation helped him feel calmer, lighter and more in control.
Your stories / 3 min read
Why I chose to work in education
I was inspired to work in education because I believe school should be a place where children feel safe, supported and able to grow in confidence. I’ve always wanted to be part of something that helps shape young lives in a positive way. Over time, that belief has only grown stronger. Seeing how a calm, caring adult can positively influence a child’s day reminds me why this work matters, and why I chose this path.
When everything became overwhelming
However, following a distressing incident in school, I found myself struggling more than I expected. Before I made the call, I was feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained. As a Deputy Headteacher and Designated Safeguarding Lead, the responsibility I carry — particularly when working with vulnerable children and families — can be significant, and that day the emotional impact had really built up.
I couldn’t switch off following this distressing incident. Even when I got home, my mind was still replaying everything that had happened. The stress stayed with me, and it began to feel like I was carrying it alone.
The hidden impact on my wellbeing
Although I continued to do my job professionally, I started to notice the toll it was taking on me. I felt mentally exhausted and found myself becoming less patient, particularly with myself. Concentration became harder, and proper rest felt out of reach. The emotional demands of the role had been building over time, and this incident brought everything to the surface.
Like many people working in education, I kept pushing forward. But eventually I realised that pushing through wasn’t working anymore.
The moment I reached out to Education Support
I made the decision to call the Education Support helpline when I recognised I couldn’t keep carrying on like that. I was at home at the time, feeling both anxious and exhausted. There was a sense that I needed to talk — not just to anyone, but to someone who would understand the pressures of the job and what I was dealing with.
Like many people working in education, I kept pushing forward. But eventually I realised that pushing through wasn’t working anymore.
A calm, compassionate space to be heard
The call lasted around 45 minutes, but it changed everything. I felt calmer and lighter emotionally. From the beginning, the counsellor was calm, reassuring and easy to talk to. It felt like a safe, confidential space where I could be honest about how I was feeling without any judgement.
What stayed with me most was being told that my response to the situation was completely understandable. Hearing that, and knowing that someone genuinely understood the emotional weight of my role, made me feel listened to and less alone.
During the conversation, I was able to process the shock of what had happened, talk openly about the stress I was carrying and begin to make sense of my reaction. I was also given practical advice to help manage my wellbeing in the days ahead, which gave me something constructive to hold onto after the call ended.
Feeling lighter, calmer, more in control
After the call, I felt noticeably calmer. The intensity of what I’d been feeling had eased, and I felt lighter emotionally. It didn’t change what had happened, but it helped me regain a sense of control and perspective.
That 45 minutes gave me the space I needed to pause, reflect and start to move forward in a healthier way.
Why your support can change lives
For me, those 45 minutes on the line were a turning point. In education, we spend so much time supporting others, but when things become too much, it’s vital that there is somewhere to turn. Speaking to someone who understands the realities of working in education makes a real difference, especially in moments when everything feels overwhelming.
Support like this ensures that people don’t have to struggle in silence. It provides a moment of relief, understanding and reassurance when it’s needed most.
The support is calm, confidential and genuinely helpful when you’re trying to process something difficult. Just one conversation with someone who truly understands can change everything.
Get free, confidential support for work-related stress: call us now
When you call you’ll talk to a qualified counsellor. We’ll offer you immediate, confidential emotional support.
Don’t wait for a crisis to call: 08000 562 561
Education Support provides its helpline free-of-charge due to generous donations from supporters. Donate today to support the mental health of teachers and education staff.
