The Anxious Student

Anxiety is a normal response to a perceived danger or threat to one’s well-being. For some students, the cause of their anxiety will be clear; but for others, it is difficult to pinpoint the source. Regardless of the cause, the resulting symptoms may include rapid heart palpitations; chest pain or discomfort; dizziness; sweating; trembling or shaking; and cold, clammy hands. The student may also complain of difficulty concentrating, obsessive thinking, feeling continually “on the edge,” having difficulty making decisions, or being too fearful/unable to take action. In rare cases, a student may experience a panic attack in which the physical symptoms occur so spontaneously and intensely that the student may fear s/he is dying. The following guidelines are appropriate in most situations.

DO

Encourage the student to discuss his/her feelings and thoughts, as this alone often relieves some pressure. Provide reassurance without being unrealistic. Be clear and direct. Provide a safe and quiet environment until the symptoms subside.

DON'T

Minimize the perceived threat to which the student is reacting Take responsibility for the student’s emotional state Overwhelm the student with information or ideas to “fix” his/ her condition

CAPS, Kansas State University – adapted from information by UC-Davis Counseling and Psychological Services