FOR FACULTY/STAFF

Specific issues you may encounter

The Anxious Student

Dealing with the unexpected and conflict are primary causes of anxiety. Unknown and unfamiliar situations raise anxiety; high and unreasonable self-expectations also increase anxiety. These students often have trouble making decisions.

Do:

• Let them discuss their feelings. Often, this alone relieves pressure.
• Remain calm and reassure students when appropriate.
• Be clear and explicit.

Don’t:

• Take responsibility for their emotional state.
• Make things more complicated.
• Overwhelm them with information or ideas