Students With Anxiety Disorders

Abstract

Abstract Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health problems in youth, warranting specialized attention in school mental health programs. Whereas a number of evidence-based treatments have garnered support for the treatment of youth anxiety, such approaches often require special consideration when they are adapted for the school setting. This chapter provides a synthesis of the research guiding evidence-based practices (EBPs) for children and adolescents with anxiety, with emphasis on treatment principles that school providers can implement flexibly based on school characteristics and capacities, provider and family preferences, and the unique needs of each student. Information is provided to equip school staff and school providers with evidence-based tools that have the potential to promote positive social-emotional and academic outcomes in students with anxiety. The chapter describes leveraging exposure exercises (i.e., systematic practice in facing fears), implementing low-burden anxiety management strategies (i.e., selective attention, deep breathing, muscle relaxation, thought challenging, mindfulness), and collaborating with caregivers and teachers to coordinate supports across settings. Additionally, the chapter speaks to cultural and contextual considerations when selecting and implementing strategies for anxiety, as well as common barriers to implementing EBPs for anxiety in schools. It concludes with an applied case example to illustrate how such strategies may look in practice, and additional resources are provided.