Learning Anxiety: Recognising and Responding to Performance Pressure

Some nervousness before a test is normal. Anxiety becomes concerning when it prevents learning, causes physical symptoms (headaches, stomach pain), or leads to avoidance.

Watch for: school refusal, sleep disruption, excessive worry, perfectionism that prevents trying, withdrawal from friends, or panic attacks.

Common sources include:

• Pressure to achieve high grades (from parents, peers, or self)
• Previous failure or negative academic experiences
• Perfectionism or fear of mistakes
• Social anxiety around academic performance (fear of judgment)
• Unrealistic expectations (comparing to gifted siblings or peers)
• Overly demanding teachers or rigid school cultures

First, validate feelings: "I notice you're worried about maths tests. That must feel stressful."

Avoid minimising ("Don't worry, it'll be fine") or increasing pressure ("You need to do better"). Instead, explore coping strategies together and adjust expectations if needed.

Help your child separate self-worth from grades. "I love you because you're you, not because of your marks."

Celebrate effort and growth, not just achievement. Ask about what they learned, not what grade they got. This shifts focus from performance to learning.

If anxiety is seriously impacting school attendance, sleep, eating, or wellbeing, speak to your GP or a psychologist specialising in children.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is evidence-based for learning anxiety. Your child's school may also have a counsellor or psychologist available.