Navigating the intricacies of higher education while managing personal and professional challenges is no small feat. In this podcast episode, titled "Navigating Teaching, Mental Health, and the Evolving Landscape of Higher Education," I, Justin Alan Hayes, share my unique journey from Corporate America to an adjunct professor role at Walsh University. This transition not only involved adapting to a new career but also addressing significant personal struggles, which in turn, enhanced my connection with students on a deeply human level. This episode sheds light on the vital intersection of higher education and mental health, grounded in real-life experiences.

Balancing a teaching career while dealing with job loss, long commutes, and personal stressors might seem overwhelming, but it provided me with a profound understanding of the mental health challenges faced by students. When I first transitioned from the corporate world to academia, the journey was anything but smooth. Participating in the "Professor for a Day" program at Walsh University opened the door for me to enter the academic field. However, the path involved rigorous application processes, interviews, and an unexpected job loss that led to long commutes between Columbus and Northeast Ohio.

These experiences brought an immense amount of stress and anxiety, yet they also offered invaluable insights into the student experience. For instance, a student's admission of nervousness during a presentation resonated deeply with me, as I was grappling with my own anxiety. This mutual understanding fostered a stronger connection with students, emphasizing the importance of relating to them on a human level. Addressing students' mental health challenges requires empathy and a willingness to share personal vulnerabilities, something I learned firsthand during my journey.

Another significant topic discussed in this episode is the evolving landscape of academia, particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence and its impact on plagiarism. This technological shift presents new challenges for universities, and finding effective ways to address them is crucial. In my efforts to bridge the gap, I authored a 100-page actionable book aimed at helping students navigate internships and job searches. This book, however, led to administrative pushback when students reported that I was selling it in class. The incident highlights the tension between individual educators' intentions to provide practical resources and university regulations that prioritize large publishing contracts.

This experience underscored the need for integrating real-world experiences into the curriculum. By sharing genuine stories and professional insights, educators can better prepare students for the workforce. The landscape of higher education has evolved significantly since 2017, and it's imperative to adapt teaching methods to meet the changing needs of students. Limiting class content based on feedback from faculty and students while incorporating real-time events can enhance learning and readiness for job markets.

Moreover, the episode delves into the personal impact of stress and anxiety on my teaching career. The pressures of balancing multiple roles, coupled with the expectations of academia, led to a period of severe anxiety and depression. This personal struggle culminated in a hospital visit, where I was diagnosed with major depression, generalized anxiety, ADHD, and low-spectrum autism. These diagnoses provided clarity and a path towards recovery, but they also highlighted the importance of mental health support for educators.

Counseling played a pivotal role in my recovery, and I emphasize the significance of finding the right fit in a counselor. Just as students need support, educators also require resources to manage their mental health. My journey from rock bottom to reintegration into society involved simplifying my life, from switching to a flip phone to minimize distractions to actively engaging in counseling sessions. These steps were essential in managing stress and maintaining a balance between personal well-being and professional responsibilities.

In conclusion, this podcast episode offers a comprehensive look at the challenges and rewards of navigating higher education and mental health. It underscores the importance of empathy, real-world experience, and mental health support in academia. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it's crucial to adapt teaching methods to better prepare students for the workforce while also addressing their mental health needs. Join me in part two of this series next week as we continue to explore these vital topics. Thank you for your continued support, and remember to be a voice for yourself or someone in need.

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Balancing Act: Academic Integrity and Mental Health in Higher Education (Part 1) | Episode 144

Chapter Markers
0:02 Higher Education and Mental Health
13:03 Navigating Mental Health Challenges in Academia
27:42 Navigating Real Experiences in Higher Education

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