How to Help Students Deal with Stress and Anxiety

Adolescence and the teen years have been a challenge for every generation. As society changes, students try to figure out who they are as an individual, family member, friend, and student. Coupled with the stress of just growing up, and the dynamics of schools and classrooms, it can be a lot.

Also read: How to Build Great Relationships with Your Students

As a teacher, we want to be a source of comfort and support for our students. Perhaps the easiest way to provide is by fostering positive relationships with them. If you have honest, connected relationships with students they will feel able to come to you in times of need. Teachers are uniquely situated to provide non-judgemental support that can get kids to open up, an important first step to coping. It kind of gives a new meaning to the term in loco parentis, doesn't it?

Some stressors and anxiety can be processed in a supportive classroom environment if it is already established. Some issues are better dealt with one on one. However, it is important that when you are counseling students to maintain a positive, caring presence, but NOT get sucked into their drama. Stay solution-oriented by helping students come up with concrete plans for coping, whether that's now or later this afternoon. Asking students what they need and helping them devise a plan gives them ownership of their issues. That alone can help alleviate stress and anxiety.

The real problem with ongoing stress and anxiety are the negative effects they have on still developing bodies and minds. One way to counteract these chronic teenage states is by having an intentionally crafted classroom environment. I know we may only have 50 minutes with a class! That makes it tricky to fit in any kind of "extras". The key is to establish rules, procedures, and routines early on and practice them until they are automatic. This approach to classroom management is magical, and the key to having space for de-stressing in the classroom. Do you have regular classroom meetings? Journaling? Yoga or meditation? (Don't laugh; it works!) As established routines, these practices don't need to be prohibitive or time consuming.

Other easy coping mechanisms you can provide in class are atmospheric. You can play quiet, relaxing music during work time. Lighting changes can make the classroom environment calmer and more conducive to relaxation. Some of my colleagues swear by scent diffusers in the classroom, with essential oils like lavender or rosemary, to help everyone with their mental health. (Check with your admin first!)

The CDC says, "A regular classroom and school schedule can provide a sense of stability and safety." We can provide so much support just by maintaining our routines and normalcy during stressful times for teens. Sometimes the stress is based at school, where social drama and academic troubles can be hard to get away from. Having an open-door policy and letting students know we are available may be all they need to open up and start to process their feelings.

Also read: Tips to Help Students Focus

We also need to keep our eyes open for changes in baseline behavior, which can be causes for alarm. In these situations, be ready to involve others in getting help for students struggling on a more serious level. You don't want to betray trust, but if they need to talk to a counselor or need help with bullying or academic struggles, that is also part of our role. Involve your administrator or even get advice from colleagues if you have deeper concerns about student stress leading to depression or acting out.

Dealing with student stress and anxiety is one of the more serious aspects of teaching. At the same time, we have an opportunity to help students move through difficult times in a positive manner. Maintaining your boundaries, taking care of yourself, and cultivating meaningful relationships will go a long way towards helping your students cope with stress and anxiety.