1. Learning & memory

Anxiety interferes with working memory, making it harder to follow instructions, recall information, or complete multi-step tasks.

Predictability reduces anxiety. Clear routines, advance warnings, and visual schedules can significantly calm anxious students.

2. Anxious thinking is often ‘worse case’ scenario thinking

Keep in mind that what is said to an anxious student who thinks in this way will be heard in a ‘worse case’ way.

  • Be clear and focus on one detail at a time
  • Be specific, explain the problem and also the solution
  • Be positive
3. Anxiety makes students overthink, making decisions hard
  • Encourage identifying and stepping aside from emotions
  • Provide constructive feedback that focuses on progress rather than grades
  • Provide growth mindset strategies around failing

The Clear Fear app provides a range of strategies to help manage anxious thoughts. These include:

  1. Breathing and mindfulness exercises to learn to stay in the moment
  2. The Worry Warriors to help challenge worse-case scenario thoughts
  3. Working with rewards to ‘Stop Overdoing Things’ in the Reacting to Your Worries section

Looking to support anxiety and resilience in school?

Explore Clear Fear for Schools.

Read more about managing anxiety in schools and colleges

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