Teacher Burnout: Resignations on the Rise in Greece

Teachers in Greece are experiencing high levels of professional burnout, leading to an increase in resignation requests. Studies indicate that Greek teachers are facing significant emotional exhaustion and a sense of failure.

According to a 2016 study, 56.5% of teachers scored high in emotional exhaustion, while 36.7% feel professionally unsuccessful. New data from 2023 show that the situation has worsened after the pandemic.

Dr. Giorgos Kosyvas, coordinator of the most recent study, points out that female teachers, permanent staff, and teachers aged 41-60 show the highest levels of burnout. Factors such as the economic crisis, low salaries, and lack of support contribute to professional exhaustion.

Christos Kyrgiakis, a mathematics professor, confirms the increase in resignations and transfers due to professional burnout. Furthermore, he mentions that teachers feel exposed to a punitive regime, with an increase in disciplinary prosecutions.

Underfunding of public education and lack of support exacerbate the situation, forcing teachers to cover multiple roles without adequate resources.