Understanding Homework Anxiety and How to Cope
Students of all grade levels experience some form of anxiety when it comes to homework assignments. Some students don’t like doing homework, while others don’t mind completing assignments if they can be completed fast enough to get it out of the way. Some find it stressful to complete their work making it more challenging to focus, especially with looming deadlines or fear of not meeting academic expectations. Fortunately, there are practical ways to combat homework anxiety, including establishing a homework routine and knowing who you can reach out to when you need help.
Tips for Managing Homework Anxiety
Addressing anxiety concerns includes understanding how it affects your ability to complete assignments. In some cases, students may have a mental health concern such as an anxiety disorder, learning disorder, or ADHD. Here are a few ways to manage homework anxiety others have found helpful:
- * Address or acknowledge any mental health concerns. Sometimes students have trouble concentrating on homework if they fell behind in class. For younger children, parents may want to ask their child’s teacher about school issues such as bullying or if the student is having problems understanding the work.
- * Make a homework routine to help you focus. Anxiety is controllable when your expectations are planned. Set a time and space that will let you focus on the work. Make your workspace comfortable with little distractions. Use your time wisely when given additional time to complete lengthy assignments.
- * Set realistic expectations. Sometimes anxiety comes from pushing yourself too hard to get things done. It is okay to make mistakes, and that is how you learn.
- * Establish good communication with your teacher. Parents with young children should have good communication with their child’s teacher. Older students should feel comfortable asking questions about their assignments for clarity. Your teacher could offer tips or advice for completing assignments.
- * Know who to turn to when you need help. Having someone such as a parent, guardian, counselor, and peer support will make a difference. People you rely on for help should encourage, motivate, and provide the support you need. Parents with younger children should get involved with their child’s learning. Experts suggest students with moral backing perform better academically.
- * Learn stress-relieving strategies. Sometimes homework is challenging to complete when you’re stressed out. Look for ways to reduce your stress, including doing activities you enjoy or gaining a new hobby that helps calm your mood. Consider a quick strategy to do before starting an assignment, such as deep breathing, stretching, or listening to music.
- * Get a homework buddy or tutor. Some subjects like mathematics can be stressful when learning new problem-solving processes. Working with someone may help reduce stress while getting the direct support you need.
- * Consider homework apps. Some digital apps offer tips and advice on how to complete homework while providing academic support. Use an app to schedule your work, such as making time for research.
Talk to Someone About Your Anxiety
Sometimes people need additional support dealing with anxiety. If you find your anxiety is making things beyond getting homework done more complicated, it may be time to seek professional help. Talk to your doctor about anxiety concerns. Therapy sessions for anxiety are also useful, and you can read more about that here. Therapy has helped students of all ages cope with stress.
You don’t have to dread doing homework assignments because you have options. Feeling anxious about completing schoolwork is common. If you feel overwhelmed or unsure what to do, reach out for help. Finding practical ways to deal with your anxiety can make getting future assignments done easier.
Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.
