Impact of Anxiety and Depression on Academic Performance

Anxiety and depression can affect many parts of an adolescent’s life from their physical health, sleep schedule, and dietary choices to their self-esteem, social interactions, and overall happiness. These conditions can also significantly impact academic performance.

Our top-notch staff of psychiatric nurse practitioners at Lewis Family Psychiatry treat children, teens, and adults with a wide range of mental, emotional, and behavioral health concerns. 

From our home base in Wellington, Florida, we provide personalized, holistic care via our specialized virtual telemedicine platform for individuals throughout the state who are suffering from anxiety, depression, and more.

Anxiety and depression in teens

Anxiety or depression can strike up to one in five teens, and their symptoms may look different than adults in some ways. Behaviors to watch for include low energy, loss of interest in activities, sleeping too much or too little, and feeling sad or hopeless.

Irritability, social isolation, and suicidal thoughts are other signs. Teens may also diet excessively, participate in self-harming behaviors like cutting their skin, drink alcohol, use drugs or smoke, and engage in risky behaviors on their own or with others. Changes in school participation or performance can be another red flag.

Mental health and school performance

Suffering from anxiety and depression can affect a student's school experience in many ways.

Trouble learning and socializing

Focus and concentration in the school setting can be a challenge for those with anxiety or depression. Instead of paying attention, learning, and remembering information, students are often consumed by creating and processing worrisome thoughts and possible threats. 

This can result in academic challenges and poor test scores. It can also affect relationships with their peers and lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Unpredictable behavior

Students with anxiety and depression can also experience inconsistencies in their behavior. One day they may be able to complete an assignment easily, while the next day they might not be able to do it at all. This can cause a fluctuation in their scores and grades.

Lack of engagement

Many students with mental health challenges may feel disengaged from the classroom and be resistant to anything related to school. This could mean avoiding certain situations or events by going to the nurse, leaving early, or missing class. 

If not addressed, these challenges could lead to a refusal to go to school or a rise in school phobia. Not being physically present makes learning the material more difficult and can affect academic performance.

Disinterest in the future

Students with anxiety and depression may not have interests or passions in certain subjects or the ability to make plans for the future. This can reduce the incentive to do well in school.

Anxiety and depression can have a significant effect on students' academic performance and future. Getting help is important to ensure a successful educational experience. 

We can help with convenient and easily accessible virtual treatment options. Click our contact button or call us at 561-303-0433 today to schedule an appointment.