Anxiety and Depression

5. Strategies to deal with anxiety

Adult and Self-support Table

How adults can support their students:	How to help students help themselves:
It’s important to separate the student from the worry Help change the internal dialogue Make sure to give judgment-free responses Take a break and go outside Drink water to bring down levels of cortisol	Teach deep breathing techniques & mindfulness exercises Explain importance of exercise to reduce anxiety Help students open up and talk about worries Have students keep a gratitude journal to stay positive

Here are some general research-based accomodations:

o   Reduce time pressures

o   Identify a support person/safe space in the school

o   Be consistent and predictable, yet flexible

o   Provide choices (in order of completing  tasks)

o   Emphasize effort over outcomes

o   Create opportunities for students to feel special

o   Provide a warm, supportive learning environment

o   Understand that behavioral outbursts can signal anxiety or low mood

o   Behavioral support should always be positive and not punitive

For more information, click on links below (optional):

Classroom Accommodations for Anxiety

How Teachers Can Help Students Cope with General Anxiety in the Classroom

Management of anxiety begins at home   

Understanding the Link Between Empathy and Anxiety in Gifted Children

Classroom Accommodations for Anxiety