Empath Discovery

I wasn't aware of the word "empath" until recently. After overcoming some health issues, I started thinking I'd like a spiritual guide and started praying and observing for an opportunity. While nothing has appeared, the word empath starting popping up around me. I had to google this word as it was entirely new to me. As soon as I read the descriptions it was like an awakening. I suddenly felt like I understood myself. My husband is open-minded but has a job in scientific research and thus can be considered a skeptic. I told him about my discovery one night. He was already familiar with the term empath. His response to me: "Of course you are. I thought you always knew."

I easily absorb other people's emotions. I struggle with negative emotions. When I pass someone and I can feel their negative energy my mind immediately feels guilt for these emotions even though I know I had absolutely nothing to do with them. I am a high school teacher and the roller coaster of emotions I experience through the day always leaves me drained and with little energy for my young family. However, the bonus is that I can pinpoint the students that need attention immediately when they walk in the classroom.

I've always struggled getting these messages and feelings about people's emotions. I've dealt with a mild depression on and off. I had myself convinced these feelings were rooted in a mental health issue. When I did take an antidepressant for a few months after my daughter was born, my abilities ceased until I started to wean off them.

My first year of university (about 13 years ago) I saw a psychic with a friend. She told me I was healer, particularly one that deals with the brain. She said I should learn reiki and be sure to eat my green vegetables. She said in my past life I was a native Shaman. I was 19 and really never gave it much thought until now.

I am a high school teacher with degrees in visual arts and history. I entered my profession thinking I would end up teaching in these areas. I supplied one day in a classroom for students with special needs. I was well liked and I enjoyed it. Since then I have found I love working with students with developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, mental health issues and behaviour problems. One issue I find is that students with issues that have gone undealt with often reach a crisis point within the first few days as my students. I spent a long time questioning what I was doing wrong but now I am thinking it might be all related. I am just not sure how it is all related.

I am looking for guidance, suggestions and resources.