In this episode of Seen in Full, Dr. Desai speaks with Abbey, a former second-grade teacher who left the classroom after experiencing severe burnout. Abbey describes reaching her breaking point in May, facing emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and physical symptoms including weight gain and elevated cortisol from chronic stress. She explains how scripted curriculum stripped away teacher agency while she simultaneously advocated for students facing poverty and trauma. The conversation addresses the additional burden of active shooter training and how Abbey sought help through counseling, functional medicine, and nutrition. The episode concludes with three actionable recommendations for teachers: setting boundaries around time and notifications, prioritizing mental and physical health, and cultivating a "2 a.m. friend" at work for crisis support.
