Its not a timekeeping issue. Its maths anxiety

Maths anxiety is a common issue that affects many people, often leading to a struggle with numbers that can seem insurmountable. This isn't just about time management; it's a deeper issue related to feelings of fear and inadequacy when it comes to mathematics. Understanding the roots of this anxiety can help individuals find effective strategies to overcome it, especially with the right support. In this article, we will explore the nature of maths anxiety, the role of counselling, and practical methods to manage and reduce this anxiety effectively.

Key Takeaways

Maths anxiety is a genuine psychological issue, not merely a timekeeping problem.
Counselling can provide essential support for those struggling with maths anxiety.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) techniques can help identify and challenge negative thoughts.
EMDR therapy is an effective treatment for managing anxiety related to maths.
Building a positive mindset and resilience is crucial in overcoming maths anxiety.

Understanding Maths Anxiety

Definition of Maths Anxiety

Maths anxiety, as I understand it, isn't just a dislike for numbers; it's a genuine, sometimes overwhelming, feeling of apprehension when faced with mathematical problems. It's more than just finding algebra boring; it's a state of panic that can affect your ability to think clearly. It's like that feeling when you know you're about to be called on in class and you haven't done the reading – except it's about numbers, and it can happen anytime, anywhere.

Common Symptoms

For me, the symptoms of maths anxiety are pretty clear. It's not just about feeling a bit stressed before an exam. It's more like:

A racing heart when I see an equation.
Sweaty palms when I have to calculate a tip.
A complete mental blank when someone asks me a simple maths question.
Avoiding situations where I might have to do maths altogether.

It's a physical and mental reaction that can be really debilitating. It's like my brain just shuts down, and I can't think straight. It's frustrating because I know I'm not stupid, but the anxiety just takes over. It can even lead to physical symptoms like stomach tension and nausea, similar to what people experience with generalised anxiety.

Impact on Daily Life

Maths anxiety doesn't just affect me in the classroom or during exams; it seeps into everyday life. I find myself avoiding situations that require even basic maths skills. This can range from calculating discounts while shopping to managing my finances. It's exhausting constantly trying to find ways around using numbers. It also affects my confidence. I start to doubt my abilities in other areas, too, which is a real downer. It's like this one fear contaminates everything else. I'm aware that I need to address these underlying issues to align with my goals.

It's not just about the maths itself; it's about the fear of failure, the fear of being judged, and the fear of not being good enough. It's a vicious cycle that can be hard to break, but understanding the problem is the first step towards finding a solution.

The Role of Counselling in Overcoming Anxiety

Anxiety, especially when it manifests as maths anxiety, can feel incredibly isolating. It's like being trapped in a cycle of fear and avoidance. But I've found that counselling can be a real game-changer. It's not just about talking; it's about developing strategies and understanding the root causes of your anxiety. It's about reclaiming control.

Benefits of Professional Support

Seeking professional support offers a structured and safe environment to explore your anxieties. A counsellor can provide objective insights and help you identify patterns in your thoughts and behaviours that contribute to your anxiety. This support is invaluable because it's tailored to your specific needs and experiences. I think that's really important. It's not a one-size-fits-all approach. Plus, they can teach you coping mechanisms that you might not discover on your own. It's like having a guide through a really tough maze.

Types of Counselling Available

There's a whole range of counselling types out there, and it can feel a bit overwhelming trying to figure out which one is right for you. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a popular choice, focusing on changing negative thought patterns. Then there's psychodynamic therapy, which delves into past experiences to understand current behaviours. EMDR therapy is another option, particularly useful if your anxiety stems from past trauma. It's worth doing some research and maybe even trying a few different types to see what clicks. I think it's important to find a type of therapy that you feel comfortable with and that addresses your specific needs.

Finding the Right Counsellor

Finding the right counsellor is a bit like finding the right pair of shoes – it needs to be a good fit. Look for someone who is qualified and experienced in dealing with anxiety. Check their credentials and read reviews if possible. But more than that, trust your gut. Do you feel comfortable talking to them? Do you feel heard and understood? A good counsellor will create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your feelings. I think that initial connection is key. Don't be afraid to shop around until you find someone you really connect with.

It's important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Anxiety can be a tough beast to tackle alone, and a counsellor can provide the tools and support you need to overcome it. Don't hesitate to reach out – your mental health is worth it.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Techniques

Identifying Negative Thought Patterns

Okay, so, first things first, we need to figure out what's actually going on in your head. It's like trying to fix a dodgy engine – you can't just start tinkering without knowing what's broken, right? For me, this means really paying attention to the thoughts that pop up when I'm faced with anything maths-related. Are they helpful? Usually not. Are they realistic? Definitely not. Are they catastrophising? Almost always. The key is to catch these thoughts as they happen, write them down if you can, and start to see the patterns.

Challenging Anxious Thoughts

Right, so now I've got a list of all the horrible things my brain likes to tell me about maths. Great. What next? Well, this is where I start to argue back. It's like being a lawyer, but your client is... well, you. I ask myself: Is there any actual evidence for this thought? Is there another way of looking at the situation? Am I jumping to conclusions? For example, if I think "I'm going to fail this exam," I challenge it with: "Have I failed every exam in my life? No. Have I studied? Yes. Is it possible I might actually pass? Yes." It's about finding the holes in those anxious thoughts and poking them until they deflate. I find that Tracey Brittain Therapy can help with this.

Developing Coping Strategies

Okay, so I've identified the negative thoughts, and I'm getting better at challenging them. But what about when the anxiety hits hard, right in the moment? That's where coping strategies come in. These are my go-to tools for managing the physical and emotional symptoms of anxiety. For me, it's a mix of things:

Breathing exercises: Sounds simple, but deep, slow breaths can really calm things down. I try the 4-7-8 technique – breathe in for 4, hold for 7, exhale for 8. It's surprisingly effective.
Mindfulness: Just focusing on the present moment, rather than worrying about the future or dwelling on the past. Even just noticing the sensations of my feet on the floor can help.
Visualisation: I picture myself in a calm, safe place. It could be a beach, a forest, or even just my favourite armchair. The key is to really engage my senses and imagine the sights, sounds, and smells of that place.

It's important to remember that coping strategies are personal. What works for me might not work for you. The key is to experiment and find what helps you to manage your anxiety in the moment. It's also worth remembering that it's okay to need help. Seeking professional support is a sign of strength, not weakness. I've found that counselling Harley Street can be a great resource for anxiety management.

EMDR Therapy for Anxiety Management

Overview of EMDR

EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, is a type of psychotherapy initially designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. It's not just about talking; it's about how your brain processes information. EMDR works by helping your brain reprocess traumatic memories and negative beliefs that fuel anxiety. During sessions, bilateral stimulation – often through guided eye movements – helps your brain process distressing memories similarly to how it does during REM sleep. I've found it particularly useful when traditional talk therapy hasn't quite hit the mark.

How EMDR Works

The EMDR process typically follows eight distinct phases, each designed to support your healing journey. It's a structured approach, and I've seen it bring about significant changes in how people process anxiety-triggering situations. Here's a quick rundown:

History Taking and Treatment Planning: The therapist works with you to understand your specific anxiety triggers and develop a personalised treatment approach.
Preparation and Stabilisation: You’ll learn coping techniques and develop a foundation of emotional stability before processing begins.
Assessment of Target Memories: Together with your therapist, you’ll identify specific memories or situations that contribute to your anxiety.
Desensitisation Through Bilateral Stimulation: The core of EMDR therapy, where you process difficult memories while engaging in bilateral eye movements or other forms of stimulation.
Installation of Positive Beliefs: Replace negative self-perceptions with empowering, realistic beliefs about yourself.
Body Scan for Residual Tension: Ensure complete processing by identifying and addressing any remaining physical tension.
Closure and Grounding: Each session ends with stabilisation exercises to ensure you feel centred and present.
Re-evaluation and Progress Tracking: Regular assessment of your progress and adjustment of treatment goals as needed.

EMDR aims to connect the emotional part of your brain that feels afraid (limbic system) with the logical part of your brain that knows you are safe (prefrontal cortex). It's about retraining your body to understand that certain objects or situations don't have to be threatening, eliminating distressing memories of the phobia.

Effectiveness for Maths Anxiety

I've found EMDR to be remarkably effective in treating various anxiety disorders, including those that contribute to maths anxiety. It's not just about reducing anxiety; it's about addressing the root causes. For example, EMDR can help identify and reprocess core memories that contribute to persistent worry patterns, like those experienced with social anxiety disorder. By addressing these underlying experiences, many people find their general anxiety levels significantly decrease, allowing them to approach daily life with greater calm and confidence. It can also help reduce the intensity of panic triggers by processing the memories and experiences that contribute to panic attacks. This often leads to fewer and less severe panic episodes, along with increased confidence in managing anxiety symptoms.

Here's a quick look at how EMDR can impact different anxiety disorders:

| Anxiety Disorder | Impact of EMDR I hope this helps!

The Connection Between Anxiety and Performance

How Anxiety Affects Performance

Anxiety can really mess with how well I do things, especially when it comes to maths. It's like my brain just freezes up. When I'm anxious, I find it hard to concentrate, and my memory seems to fail me. It's a vicious cycle – the more anxious I get, the worse I perform, which then makes me even more anxious. It's not just about feeling stressed; it's a tangible block that stops me from thinking clearly and applying what I know. It's like trying to run with weights tied to my ankles; I can do it, but it's so much harder.

Strategies to Improve Performance

To actually improve my performance, I've found a few things that help. It's not a quick fix, but consistent effort makes a difference:

Preparation is key: The more prepared I am, the less anxious I feel. This means going over the material thoroughly and doing plenty of practise questions.
Breaking down tasks: Instead of looking at a huge problem, I break it down into smaller, more manageable steps. This makes it less overwhelming and easier to tackle.
Mindfulness techniques: Practising mindfulness helps me stay grounded and focused in the present moment, rather than getting caught up in anxious thoughts. I find that even a few minutes of deep breathing can make a difference.

Creating a calm environment is also important. I try to find a quiet space where I won't be disturbed, and I make sure I have everything I need before I start. It's about setting myself up for success, rather than failure.

The Role of Mindset

My mindset plays a massive role in how I handle anxiety and perform under pressure. If I go into a situation thinking I'm going to fail, I probably will. It's about shifting that negative self-talk and improving mental health. I'm working on developing a more positive and resilient mindset. This involves:

Challenging negative thoughts: When I notice myself thinking negatively, I try to question those thoughts and replace them with more realistic ones.
Focusing on progress, not perfection: I remind myself that it's okay to make mistakes and that learning is a process. It's about celebrating small wins and not getting bogged down by setbacks.
Practising self-compassion: Being kind to myself, especially when things go wrong, is crucial. It's about treating myself with the same understanding and support I would offer a friend. I've found that using EMDR for anxiety can be a great help.

Addressing Underlying Issues

It's easy to focus on the surface-level symptoms of maths anxiety, like panicking during a test or freezing when asked a simple calculation. But, to truly overcome this issue, I believe it's vital to dig deeper and address the underlying issues that fuel it. It's like treating a weed by only cutting off the leaves – it'll just keep growing back. We need to get to the root.

Identifying Triggers

For me, the first step is always figuring out what exactly sets off the anxiety. Is it the pressure of timed tests? The fear of being wrong in front of others? Or maybe a specific type of maths problem? Keeping a journal can be really helpful here. I try to jot down when I feel anxious about maths, what was happening at the time, and what thoughts were going through my head. Over time, patterns start to emerge, and I can see what my specific triggers are. Once I know what they are, I can start to develop strategies to manage them. For example, if timed tests are a trigger, I might practise doing maths problems under timed conditions to get more comfortable with the pressure. This is a great way to improve performance.

Exploring Past Experiences

Sometimes, maths anxiety stems from negative experiences in the past. Maybe I had a teacher who made me feel stupid, or perhaps I struggled with a particular maths concept and never fully understood it. These experiences can leave a lasting impact, creating a sense of fear and inadequacy around maths. I find it useful to reflect on these past experiences and try to reframe them. For instance, I might remind myself that one bad experience doesn't define my ability to do maths, or that everyone struggles with certain concepts at some point. It's also helpful to talk about these experiences with a therapist or counsellor, who can provide support and guidance.

Building Resilience

Building resilience is key to managing maths anxiety in the long term. This means developing the ability to bounce back from setbacks and challenges, and to maintain a positive attitude even when things get tough. There are several things I do to build resilience. First, I focus on my strengths and accomplishments, rather than dwelling on my weaknesses and failures. Second, I practise self-compassion, treating myself with kindness and understanding when I make mistakes. Third, I cultivate a growth mindset, believing that my abilities can be developed through hard work and dedication. Finally, I build a strong support system of friends, family, and professionals who can provide encouragement and guidance when I need it. It's about creating a buffer against the negative thoughts and feelings that can fuel maths anxiety.

Addressing the underlying issues of maths anxiety is a journey, not a destination. It takes time, effort, and self-compassion. But by identifying triggers, exploring past experiences, and building resilience, I can create a more positive and empowering relationship with maths.

Support Systems for Individuals with Maths Anxiety

Role of Family and Friends

Family and friends can play a massive role in helping someone with maths anxiety. It's about creating a supportive environment where they feel comfortable expressing their fears without judgement. Encouragement and understanding are key.

Offer practical help, like going over homework together (but without pressure!).
Listen patiently when they talk about their anxieties.
Celebrate small victories to build their confidence.

It's important to remember that everyone learns at their own pace. Pushing someone too hard can actually make their anxiety worse. Focus on being a source of calm and reassurance.

Peer Support Groups

Peer support groups can be incredibly beneficial. Knowing you're not alone in your struggles is powerful. Sharing experiences and strategies with others who understand can reduce feelings of isolation. It's a safe space to vent, learn, and grow. I find that peer support groups offer a unique sense of camaraderie.

Sharing experiences with others who understand.
Learning coping mechanisms from peers.
Reducing feelings of isolation.

Online Resources

There's a wealth of online resources available these days. From websites and apps to forums and online courses, there's something for everyone. These resources can provide information, strategies, and support at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home. I think that finding the right online tools can make a real difference. I have found that using online resources can be a great way to learn more about managing maths anxiety.

Websites with helpful articles and tips.
Apps designed to improve maths skills and reduce anxiety.
Online forums where you can connect with others.

Practical Strategies to Manage Anxiety

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

I've found that incorporating mindfulness into my daily routine can really help to ground me. It's not about completely stopping anxious thoughts, but rather learning to observe them without judgement. Simple breathing exercises, like box breathing (inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4), can be surprisingly effective in moments of panic.

Deep Breathing: Focusing on slow, deep breaths can calm the nervous system.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Tensing and releasing different muscle groups can reduce physical tension.
Mindful Meditation: Paying attention to the present moment without judgement can help reduce overthinking.

I try to set aside just 5-10 minutes each day for a quick meditation. There are loads of apps and online resources that can guide you through it, even if you've never meditated before. It's about finding what works for you and sticking with it.

Time Management Skills

Poor time management can definitely ramp up my anxiety levels. Feeling overwhelmed by tasks and deadlines is a common trigger. I've discovered that breaking down large projects into smaller, more manageable steps makes a huge difference. Using a planner or a digital calendar to schedule tasks and set realistic deadlines helps me stay organised and in control.

Prioritise Tasks: Use methods like the Eisenhower Matrix (urgent/important) to focus on what matters most.
Set Realistic Goals: Avoid overcommitting yourself; be honest about what you can achieve.
Schedule Breaks: Regular breaks prevent burnout and maintain focus.

Practise and Preparation

For me, a lot of my maths anxiety stems from feeling unprepared. If I know I have a test or a presentation coming up, I make sure to dedicate enough time to practise and prepare thoroughly. This doesn't just mean cramming the night before, but rather spacing out my study sessions over several days or weeks. The more familiar I am with the material, the more confident I feel, and the less anxious I become. Practising in conditions similar to the actual event (e.g., doing practise tests under timed conditions) can also help to reduce anxiety on the day.

Review Material Regularly: Consistent review helps reinforce learning and reduces last-minute panic.
Seek Help When Needed: Don't hesitate to ask for clarification or assistance from teachers, tutors, or peers.
Simulate Test Conditions: Practise under timed conditions to build confidence and reduce anxiety during the actual test.

The Importance of Self-Compassion

Understanding Self-Criticism

I've noticed how easily I can fall into the trap of self-criticism, especially when I'm struggling with maths. It's like there's a little voice inside my head constantly pointing out my mistakes and shortcomings. This internal critic can be incredibly damaging, making me feel even more anxious and less confident in my abilities. It's important to recognise when this is happening and actively challenge those negative thoughts. I try to remind myself that everyone makes mistakes, and that struggling with maths doesn't make me any less intelligent or capable.

Building a Positive Self-Image

Building a positive self-image is a continuous process, but it's essential for managing maths anxiety. I've found that focusing on my strengths and accomplishments, rather than dwelling on my weaknesses, can make a big difference. It's also helpful to surround myself with supportive people who believe in me and encourage me to keep going. I try to practise positive self-talk, reminding myself of my capabilities and celebrating my successes, no matter how small. This helps me to develop a more balanced and realistic view of myself, reducing the impact of negative self-perceptions. I also find that mindfulness practises can help me stay grounded and appreciate my positive qualities.

Encouraging Self-Acceptance

Self-acceptance is about acknowledging my imperfections and treating myself with kindness and understanding. It means recognising that I'm not perfect, and that's okay. I try to avoid comparing myself to others and focus on my own progress and journey. I've found that practising self-compassion can help me to be more accepting of myself, even when I'm struggling. This involves treating myself with the same care and concern that I would offer to a friend in a similar situation. It's about recognising that I'm doing the best I can, and that's enough. I try to remember that setbacks are a normal part of the learning process, and that they don't define my worth or potential. I find that Counselling Harley Street can provide a supportive environment to explore these feelings and develop strategies for self-acceptance.

It's easy to get caught up in negative self-talk, especially when dealing with something as challenging as maths anxiety. But I've learned that being kind to myself, acknowledging my struggles, and celebrating my progress, no matter how small, can make a huge difference in my overall well-being and ability to cope with anxiety.

Here are some things I try to do:

Acknowledge my feelings without judgement.
Remind myself that everyone makes mistakes.
Focus on my strengths and accomplishments.
Practise positive self-talk.

Long-Term Solutions for Maths Anxiety

Developing a Growth Mindset

For me, the first step in tackling maths anxiety for good is adopting a growth mindset. It's about believing that my abilities aren't fixed, that I can improve with effort and learning. This shift in perspective can make a huge difference. Instead of seeing challenges as proof of my inadequacy, I try to view them as opportunities to grow. It's not always easy, but it's a continuous process of reminding myself that I can learn and improve. I try to focus on the process of learning, not just the outcome.

Continuous Learning and Adaptation

Maths isn't something you just 'get' and then you're done with it. It's a skill that needs constant practise and adaptation. I've found that continuous learning helps keep my anxiety at bay. This means:

Regularly revisiting concepts I find difficult.
Exploring new approaches to problem-solving.
Being open to different teaching methods.
Using online resources to supplement my learning.

It's about staying engaged and not letting fear stop me from seeking out new knowledge. I try to think of it as a journey, not a destination. I also try to remember that enhancing working memory can help me retain information better.

Seeking Ongoing Support

I've learned that dealing with maths anxiety isn't a solo mission. It's okay to ask for help, and it's important to have a support system in place. This could mean:

Regular sessions with a counsellor or therapist.
Joining a peer support group.
Having friends or family who understand and support me.
Utilising online forums and resources.

Having someone to talk to, someone who understands what I'm going through, can make a huge difference. It's about knowing that I'm not alone and that there are people who can offer guidance and encouragement. I try to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It's about taking control of my anxiety and not letting it control me.

Counselling Harley Street: A Resource for Anxiety

I've found that when people are struggling with maths anxiety, sometimes they need more than just a few tips and tricks. That's where professional counselling comes in. And if you're in London, or willing to travel, Harley Street is a place to consider. I want to share my thoughts on why it can be a helpful resource.

Expertise in Anxiety Disorders

One of the biggest advantages of seeking counselling on Harley Street is the concentration of specialists. Many practitioners there have dedicated their careers to understanding and treating anxiety disorders. This means they're not just generally trained therapists; they have in-depth knowledge of the nuances of anxiety, including how it manifests in different people and the most effective ways to address it. It's reassuring to know you're working with someone who really gets what you're going through. For example, trauma therapy can be a great option for some people.

Tailored Treatment Plans

What I appreciate about the approach on Harley Street is the emphasis on individualised care. They don't just offer a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, they take the time to understand your specific situation, your history with maths anxiety, and your personal goals. Based on this, they'll create a treatment plan that's tailored to your needs. This might involve a combination of different therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), EMDR, or mindfulness-based approaches.

Here are some elements that might be included in a tailored treatment plan:

Detailed assessment of your anxiety triggers
Personalised coping strategies
Regular progress reviews

I believe that this personalised approach is essential for achieving lasting results. It's not about just managing the symptoms of anxiety; it's about addressing the underlying causes and helping you develop the skills and confidence to overcome your fears.

Accessibility and Convenience

Harley Street's central location in London makes it relatively accessible for many people. While it might have a reputation for being expensive, it's worth exploring your options. Many clinics offer flexible appointment times, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate busy schedules. Plus, with the rise of online therapy, some practitioners now offer remote sessions, making it even easier to access support from the comfort of your own home. This can be a real game-changer if you're struggling to find the time or energy to attend in-person appointments. It's all about finding what works best for you and your individual circumstances. If you are looking for mental health support, it's worth exploring your options.

Success Stories and Testimonials

Real-Life Experiences

Hearing how others have overcome maths anxiety can be incredibly encouraging. I've seen first-hand how counselling and therapy can transform lives. It's not just about improving maths skills; it's about building confidence and changing your relationship with numbers.

Sarah, a university student, struggled with statistics until she found a counsellor who helped her address her underlying anxiety.
David, a professional accountant, felt like a fraud due to his maths anxiety, but CBT techniques helped him manage his negative thoughts.
Emily, a primary school teacher, now uses mindfulness techniques to help her students with their maths-related worries.

It's easy to feel alone when you're battling maths anxiety, but these stories prove that recovery is possible. It takes courage to seek help, but the rewards are immense.

Impact of Counselling

Counselling can have a profound impact on individuals struggling with maths anxiety. I've observed several key benefits:

Reduced anxiety levels: Therapy helps individuals manage and reduce their anxiety symptoms.
Improved confidence: As anxiety decreases, confidence in maths abilities grows.
Enhanced performance: With less anxiety, individuals can perform better in maths-related tasks.
Better overall well-being: Overcoming maths anxiety can improve overall mental and emotional well-being.

Benefit	Description
Reduced Anxiety	Individuals report feeling less anxious and stressed when faced with maths-related situations.
Increased Confidence	Therapy helps build self-esteem and belief in one's ability to handle mathematical challenges.
Improved Performance	With reduced anxiety, individuals can focus better and perform more effectively in maths tasks.
Enhanced Well-being	Overcoming maths anxiety leads to a more positive outlook and improved quality of life.

Encouragement for Others

If you're struggling with maths anxiety, I want you to know that you're not alone. Many people experience this, and there are effective ways to manage and overcome it. Don't let fear hold you back from reaching your full potential. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and with the right support, you can change your relationship with maths. Consider exploring anxiety symptoms and seeking professional guidance. Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health, and taking care of your mind is an investment in your future.

At Tracey Brittain Therapy, we love sharing the amazing stories of our clients. Their journeys show how therapy can really change lives for the better. If you want to see how we can help you too, visit our website today!

Final Thoughts

In the end, it’s clear that the struggle with maths isn’t just about the numbers on the page. It’s often tied to deeper feelings of anxiety and fear. Many people find themselves overwhelmed, not because they can’t do the maths, but because the pressure and worry take over. Tackling maths anxiety means addressing these feelings head-on. With the right support and strategies, it’s possible to change the narrative. So, let’s shift the focus from timekeeping to understanding the emotional side of learning. After all, it’s not just about getting the right answer; it’s about feeling confident enough to try.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is maths anxiety?

Maths anxiety is when someone feels very worried or scared about doing maths. This can make it hard for them to think clearly or perform well in maths tasks.

What are the signs of maths anxiety?

Common signs include feeling nervous before maths tests, sweating, a racing heart, and sometimes even feeling sick. People might also avoid situations that involve maths.

How does maths anxiety affect daily life?

Maths anxiety can make it tough to do school work, take tests, or even handle everyday tasks like budgeting. It can lead to lower confidence and performance in maths.

What can counselling do for maths anxiety?

Counselling can help by providing support and strategies to manage anxiety. A therapist can work with individuals to understand their feelings and develop coping skills.

What techniques are used in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for maths anxiety?

CBT techniques include identifying negative thoughts about maths, challenging those thoughts, and learning new ways to cope with anxiety.

What is EMDR therapy and how can it help?

EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, is a type of therapy that helps people process traumatic memories. It can be effective for those with maths anxiety by helping them deal with past experiences.

How long does EMDR therapy take for anxiety?

The number of EMDR sessions needed can vary. Most people might need about 6 to 12 sessions to see good results, but it depends on the individual.

What support can friends and family provide for someone with maths anxiety?

Friends and family can help by being understanding and encouraging. They can offer to practise maths together, listen to concerns, and provide a calm environment.