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Posted 9/29/2014 4:47 AM (GMT 0)
I teach a 12-14yr old Sunday school class every Sunday morning. We can't have the door closed, I have to be able to see the window, no one is allowed to touch the table after I have clorox-wiped it, and if anyone stands behind me he/she is not guaranteed physical safety. I have taught this class for 7 years and the kids have always been good about my OCD boundaries. However, this current group of kids seems to be determined to incapacitate me every week! I have started to feel panicky before I even get out of bed in anticipation of class and I had a full fledged panic attack today at the end of class. I love teaching and the kids enjoy my class, I just don't know that I can handle these 'devils' for 3 more months! I love them, but they get way too much amusement from my anxiety.

More positively, my anxiety during the rest of the week has become more manageable. My doctor suggested that instead of swallowing a benzo (which has proven ineffective) I should just hold it in my mouth until it dissolves. Amazing! Why has it taken 25 years to think of this?
Posted 9/29/2014 5:15 AM (GMT 0)
Lani, that is how i use to take them, i put them under my tongue and they
would enter my blood stream almost immediately, good to hear from you
it's been a while.
I love teaching also i use to teach Sophomores the History of Christianity,
no one else wanted them lol. Peace

Larry ***
Posted 9/29/2014 11:34 AM (GMT 0)
hi,

i don't know the answer to your Sunday School problem, but it seems like you should talk to someone. Whoever is in charge. Perhaps they can have a talk with your students and ask them not to antagonize them. You also have the choice of not teaching school if it's too much for you. That may be hard for you since it seems to help your spirituality, but at least you know you have that choice.

I hope things work out for you!
Posted 9/29/2014 3:38 PM (GMT 0)
la5ni,

I am so glad to hear that you have found an effective method (sublingually) of using your Rx!! That is HUGE! I am really glad that your doctor made this suggestion.:)

As for your Sundday School teaching goes...can you request a co-teacher or back up? We rotate on a regular basis at our church for Sunday School, as well as other ministries...

This might take the pressure off of you...and if you are having a particulary rough morning, you could call in your other helper?

Or how about a fun distraction that you can pull out if things are getting difficult...such as a favorite game (four corners, silent ball?) or activity that they don't always get to do?

Asking for help from your pastor or youth leader is another option as Rich suggested. He/she could come talk to the students about being kind and sensitive to others...in a general way...and they should get the picture.:)

Blessings on all that you are doing! May you continue to feel well.:)

S.C.
Posted 9/30/2014 1:18 AM (GMT 0)
I love my class! I would never ask to not teach anymore. I am also very protective and possessive of them and don't like other people teaching my class. It's really not a big deal. They know to back off when I stop breathing:) Our topic for the month of October is "becoming more Christlike." I think we'll start with compassion and empathy. I really do love them. I was just venting in the moment.
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