Women’s Rights & Empowerment Director South and Professor of Psychology, Mindfulness and Mental Health, Southwestern College, SD, CA

Let me start by saying that I love teaching. If I had to choose my profession over and over again, I would do it every time. In fact, many friends often ask me, “Why are you still teaching? And are you still part-time?” My answer is “yes and yes.” The more I grow in my profession and in my powerful union, the more I am driven by my “why.”

There’s a saying that if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life. I used to believe that until I became a part-time professor without a clear path. For many years, I worried if I would have a contract the next semester and I hoped I wouldn’t get sick because I didn’t have health insurance. Seven years later, thanks to our amazing advocates and union, I am now vested and have insurance for both my mental and physical health.

Being active in my local union, as the Representative for Education, Humanities, Behavioral and Social Sciences department and co-leading a Women’s Caucus, I have an opportunity to advocate, listen and share ideas on how we can improve our mental health. One of the challenges we share with many local unions is increasing membership and engagement. Being a PT Faculty member can be overwhelming, and it is our job as engaged members to help reach out to our colleagues to increase awareness about the powerful benefits our Union provides, and how we can continue to advocate for more.

I want to talk about mental health, specifically for us—part-time women faculty. How do we maintain our social-emotional health while balancing the many roles we play? Many of us are in the “sandwich generation,” caring for our own families and our aging parents. We are also teachers, partners, and friends, trying to find time to take care of our bodies and have a social life. The pressures of being a part-time faculty member—from the uncertainty of contracts to the lack of benefits—adds another layer of stress to this already demanding juggling act.

This constant pressure can take a significant toll on our well-being. It can lead to burnout, anxiety, and a feeling of being overwhelmed. We must acknowledge that our mental health is just as important as our physical health, and it’s essential to find ways to support ourselves and each other.

The goal isn’t just to “survive” but to thrive. This means finding practices that allow us to recharge and find balance. As the Women’s Director South, I am committed to creating spaces and providing resources that help us navigate these challenges. We need to build a community where we can openly discuss these issues, share strategies, and support one another.

Our union has fought for the benefits and protections we now have, and it’s up to us to continue that advocacy. By raising our voices and sharing our stories, we can ensure that the needs of part-time women faculty—especially our mental health needs—are at the forefront of the conversation. I am including a few helpful tips to continue your mental health journey.

Helpful Tips for Prioritizing Your Mental Health

As women who work as part-time faculty, our time and energy are often stretched thin. Taking intentional steps to support your mental health is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Here are some actionable tips to help you find balance and well-being:

Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
Even five to ten minutes a day can make a significant difference. Mindfulness helps you stay present and manage stress. Apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided meditations that are easy to fit into a busy schedule.

Set Clear Boundaries
It’s easy to feel like you always have to be “on.” Learn to say no to requests that will overextend you. Establish specific times for checking emails and dedicate other times to family, self-care, and rest.

Prioritize Physical Health
Your physical and mental health are deeply connected. Make time for exercise, even if it’s just a short walk. Prioritize sleep and try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule. A balanced diet can also have a profound effect on your mood and energy levels.

Build Your Support System
You are not alone. Connect with other part-time faculty women in your union and college. Share your experiences and offer support. Having a network of people who understand your challenges can make a world of difference.

Schedule “Me” Time
Deliberately set aside time each week for an activity you enjoy, whether it’s reading a book, gardening, or listening to music. This is non-negotiable time for yourself that helps you recharge and prevent burnout.

Utilize Your Resources
Now that many of us have access to health insurance, make use of it. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Your college or union may also offer mental health resources and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that you can access.

I look forward to hearing your feedback, I welcome questions and ideas. I can be reached via email at jpenhos@cca.org or jacquelinepenhos@cca4us.org.

In Unity and Health,
Jacqueline Penhos, SELP, MS, MA