The St. Anthony School and Anxiety/Depression

What are Anxiety and Depression, and how do they affect students? 

Anxiety is often described as feeling excessively frightened, uneasy, distressed, or worried in situations where others may not feel the same level of concern. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many students have experienced heightened anxiety related to attending school, interacting socially, or managing academic expectations. Students with school-related anxiety may have difficulty focusing in class, completing assignments, or participating in group activities. They may also experience physical symptoms such as nausea, rapid breathing, elevated heart rate, or headaches, which can lead to school avoidance or frequent requests to visit the nurse.

Depression, on the other hand, involves persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or low motivation that interfere with daily functioning. In a school setting, depression may appear as withdrawal from peers, lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep or appetite, irritability, or a noticeable decline in academic performance. Students may struggle to initiate tasks, keep up with assignments, or maintain energy throughout the day. These emotional challenges can significantly affect a student’s ability to engage in learning unless the appropriate supports are in place.

The St. Anthony Approach to Anxiety/Depression

The St. Anthony School provides a nurturing, structured environment designed to support students experiencing anxiety and depression. Our educators understand how emotional wellness impacts learning, and they approach each student with empathy, consistency, and a focus on building trust. Classrooms are calm and predictable, helping students feel secure and grounded throughout the day. 

Through selective diagnostics and close collaboration among teachers, counselors, and families, we identify each student’s needs and place them in academic settings where they can learn comfortably and confidently. With individualized instruction, intentional relationship-building, and appropriate accommodations that support emotional regulation and academic engagement, The St. Anthony School empowers students to develop resilience, strengthen coping skills, and experience meaningful success in both their emotional and academic growth.

Interested in learning more about our academic accommodations and modifications? Visit our Academic Approach page.