Managing anxiousness

Almost a year after the COVID-19 epidemic began, life is slowly returning to normal, but it is still a far way from the situation in early March 2020. Masks are a common sight in everyday life, restaurants and businesses are still only running at a fraction of their capacity, and live sports, music, and theatre will not return for many months.

Education and schools are still a long way from regaining the level of normality that existed before the outbreak. Despite the fact that more students are coming to the classroom on a daily basis, the experience is far from what most of them are used to. Students and instructors alike have been more anxious as a result of all of the changes—from classroom arrangements and hybrid learning plans to real classroom arrangements—as well as worries about the flu virus itself.

However, according to research completed in 2020, the number of children who experience symptoms of anxiety and despair while participating in COVID has more than doubled. Anxiety in children may manifest itself in a variety of ways, but for many children, troubles at school, both in terms of academic performance and conduct, are one of the earliest symptoms of difficulty that they are experiencing.

That does not rule out the possibility of instructors assisting their pupils in dealing with their anxieties. By keeping a few fundamental concepts in mind and using them in your regular contact with kids, you can contribute to their mental health both now and in the future, helping them to succeed academically.

A lot of children are terrified, alone, lonely, and irritated as a result of COVID-19 and the uncertainty that comes with it — much like adults, to be honest. The concept of concentrating on commas and arithmetic facts could seem inconsequential when you consider how you are feeling about the epidemic and your personal fears for the health of yourself and your family. However, in order to help children feel comfortable and supported, it is necessary to preserve a certain amount of normality in their lives, which includes studying. Despite the fact that you may need to modify your teaching techniques in order to comply with health guidelines, education remains important. Instead of striving for perfection, strive for growth.

Whether you're teaching online or in person, including mindfulness activities in your lessons can allow students to redirect their thoughts, anchor themselves in the present moment, and lower their stress levels. When you feel out of control – which is a frequent emotion during the epidemic – anxiety spirals, and mindfulness activities help students recover some control over their feelings by focusing on the present. Look for mindfulness exercises that you may do on the internet.

Regardless of your own personal sentiments about the epidemic, it's critical to frame your remarks in a positive light. Although no one likes wearing masks, they are necessary for protecting everyone's health. Assist kids in remembering the good they are doing by donning masks, washing their hands, and engaging in social distancing activities.

When students voice worries and anxieties, acknowledge and affirm their feelings while also reminding them of the good leaps and accomplishments that have been accomplished. Concentrate on how they have contributed to the solution and express gratitude to them for their strength and perseverance.

Because of the limited instructional time available, you may be hesitant to devote more time to other activities. However, creating a safe environment where students can safely discuss their feelings, as well as incorporating activities that remind them of their strengths, teach them coping skills, and help them feel more in control, can help them manage their anxiety and be more open to learning, among other things.

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