Anxiety & School Refusal

Anxiety is a natural response to stress or uncertainty, but when feelings of worry, fear, or panic become overwhelming and begin to affect daily life, they can have a significant impact on a young person’s wellbeing and education. School refusal is not simply avoiding school or poor behaviour—it is often linked to high levels of anxiety that make attending school feel emotionally distressing or unsafe. Young people may experience anxiety related to academic pressure, friendships, bullying, exams, social situations, changes at home, or concerns about fitting in. This can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, poor sleep, and panic, as well as increased absence from school, withdrawal from activities, and low mood. Early understanding and support from both home and school are essential in helping young people feel safe, heard, and gradually confident in returning to regular attendance and positive routines.