Recognizing Anxiety in the Classroom

Overview

Anxiety can manifest in various ways in a school setting. Early recognition allows for timely support and intervention.

Physical Signs

• Frequent trips to the school nurse (stomachaches, headaches)
• Restlessness, fidgeting, or muscle tension
• Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
• Fatigue or changes in eating habits

Behavioral & Emotional Signs

• Avoidance of specific tasks, subjects, or social situations
• Extreme perfectionism and fear of making mistakes
• Irritability, sudden outbursts, or crying spells
• Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank

Immediate Steps to Support

• Validate: Acknowledge their feelings without judgment ("I can see this is really hard right now").
• Regulate: Encourage deep breathing (e.g., box breathing or 4-7-8 method).
• Accommodate: Offer a temporary break pass or a quiet space to decompress.
• Refer: If anxiety is persistent, consult the school counselor and consider a referral to Stoughton Counseling.