Anxiety in School: What Students Wish Adults Knew

School can be one of the biggest sources of anxiety for young people. What looks like “laziness,” “avoidance,” or “attitude” often hides a nervous system under pressure.

Many students won’t say:
“I didn’t do the work because I’m scared to fail.”
“I avoid the classroom because I feel judged.”
“I can’t focus because my thoughts are racing.”

Anxiety limits attention, memory, routine, and confidence. It’s not a lack of motivation — it’s the brain in survival mode.

Young people need adults who notice the signs:

• Perfectionism

• Overthinking

• Avoidance

• Irritability

• Emotional overload

• Physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches

The most powerful support is relational. When adults validate a young person’s experience — “I hear you, and we’ll work through this together” — anxiety loses its grip.

Our Solea Cortex programmes give students structured strategies to reduce anxiety, build inner resilience, and feel safe enough to re-engage with learning.