Article Spotlight:
Anxiety — Are we making it worse?
According to an article posted by Teachers College Columbia University: Why does avoiding stressful tasks increase anxiety? Avoidance teaches your brain that the situation is dangerous or unmanageable. Over time, this makes the fear stronger and harder to face.
Many schools are giving more accommodations to reduce student anxiety, but many of these reduce exposure to typical challenges. This canaccidentally make anxiety worse instead of better.
What actually helps students get less anxious? Gradually facing fearsin small steps helps the brain learn the situation is safe. Typical school activities like presentations and group work act as healthy practice for managing stress.
What should schools and students do instead of relying on avoidance? Build real coping skills and use accommodations only with a plan to fade them out. This supports long-term confidence and prepares students for future challenges in college and life.
For the full article, go to: tc.columbia.edu
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