About anxiety

We all worry or feel scared or anxious at times, but some students may worry so much that their anxiety leads to avoidance in participating in activities, being with others, or going places. A student with anxiety who refuses to participate may be feeling overwhelmed rather than misbehaving or being stubborn. Students with anxiety may appear nervous or restless, or they may cry or become visibly fearful or distressed. 

Anxiety can cause physical symptoms such as frequent stomach aches and headaches. This might affect their interest in class, or result in frequent sick bay visits. Students with anxiety may find it difficult to concentrate at times, especially when they’re working in test-like conditions. This means that sometimes their results might not reflect their true capability.

Some students with anxiety may refuse to try something if they don’t feel they can do it well (particularly if others are watching), or throw their work away to start again. They may seek lots of reassurance from staff. Students with disability often experience higher rates of anxiety than their peers.