Things Students With Anxiety Wish Their Teachers Understood

I wish they knew when I lacked in participation, it wasn’t because I didn’t care.

I wish they’d tell students it’s OK to come to them if they’re struggling because of anxiety.

I wish some of my teachers would have some compassion instead of assuming everything is just an excuse.

I wish my professor had known it wasn’t just a matter of adjusting to grad school. It was serious.

I wish it was easier to have absences excused. I’d much rather stay home than go and cry in class.

It’s not something we’re making up because we procrastinated.

The one thing a teacher should understand is that calling on a student with social anxiety is a nightmare.

When I abruptly leave the room, please don’t make it a big deal.

I’m not lazy. I try my hardest. I’m not lying. I do everything I can. Anxiety isn’t something I just made up one day.

I wish they knew how much time, dedication, tears, breakdowns and energy it can take to get an assignment done. 

I have an intense fear of giving the wrong answer to a question out loud.

When I got in trouble in school, I wasn’t trying to be a “bad kid” and it wasn’t a “phase.” I needed help, and I needed someone to recognize that.

My inability to function at times is not a result of laziness, procrastination or sheer lack of willpower.

I might be too scared to come to you. If you see me struggling, please say something.