Anxiety Disorders

What it is:
Anxiety disorders involve excessive worry or fear that interferes with daily functioning. Students may experience generalized anxiety, social anxiety, or specific phobias, all of which can impact learning and classroom participation.

What to look out for:
Signs include avoidance of certain tasks, frequent physical complaints (stomach aches, headaches), excessive worry about performance, or visible distress during tests or presentations. Students may also over-prepare or seek constant reassurance.

Real-life example:
A student may panic before a class presentation, experiencing rapid heartbeat and sweating. Even though they know their material, fear prevents them from speaking clearly or participating in discussions.

How it affects learning:
Anxiety can reduce concentration, memory recall, and classroom engagement. It may lead to avoidance of assignments, group work, or public speaking, which limits learning opportunities. Chronic anxiety can also cause fatigue and emotional distress.

Best learning strategies:

• Break tasks into manageable steps and provide clear instructions.

• Encourage relaxation and coping strategies (breathing exercises, grounding techniques).

• Provide extra time for tests or presentations.

• Foster a supportive, non-judgmental classroom environment.

• Collaborate with counsellors or therapists for long-term management.